Heritability of Environmentally Controlled Traits
If a trait is largely controlled by environment, then $h^{2}$ estimate will be-
- Low — Correct Answer
- High
- Medium
- None
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Low
If a trait is largely controlled by environment, it means VE (environmental variance) is large relative to VG (genetic variance). Since h² = VG / VP = VG / (VG + VE), a large VE produces a very small h² value — i.e., heritability is low.
Heritability Formula and Logic
- h² = VG / VP = VG / (VG + VE)
- If VE is very large (environment dominates) → VG/VP is very small → h² is LOW
- If VG is very large (genetics dominates) → VG/VP is close to 1 → h² is HIGH
Trait Examples by h² Category
| h² Level | Examples | Dominated by |
|---|---|---|
| Low (<0.20) | Conception rate, litter size, disease resistance, fertility | Environment |
| Medium (0.20–0.40) | Milk yield, egg production, growth rate | Both |
| High (>0.40) | Fat%, fleece weight, carcass quality, body weight | Genetics |
📚 About this Topic — Animal Genetics & Breeding
This multiple choice question is from Animal Genetics & Breeding, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Genetics & Breeding to strengthen your preparation.
