Improvement Method for Indian Buffalo Breeds
Buffalo breeds in India can be best improved by-
- Selective breeding — Correct Answer
- Crossbreeding
- Grading up
- Inbreeding
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Selective breeding
India possesses the world's best riverine buffalo breeds (Murrah, Nili-Ravi, Surti, Mehsana). There are no superior exotic buffalo breeds available for crossbreeding. Therefore, Indian buffalo breeds are best improved by Selective breeding — intensive selection within existing high-quality purebred populations.
Breeding Policy — Species-Wise Summary
| Species / Situation | Best Breeding Policy | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Buffalo (India) | Selective breeding | World's best buffalo breeds already in India; no superior exotic breeds to cross with |
| Non-descript cattle | Crossbreeding | Rapid infusion of exotic dairy genes + heterosis |
| Well-defined cattle breeds | Selective breeding | Maintain breed purity; improve within breed |
| Pigs & Poultry | Inbreeding → inbred lines → crossbreeding for heterosis | Short generation interval; commercial hybrids |
Note on Selective Breeding
- Selective breeding = out-crossing within a herd using selected (superior) sires
- It increases the frequency of desirable genes already present in the population
- In India, selective breeding is the best method for improvement of buffalo breeds
📚 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.
