Primary Driver of Genetic Resemblance
Chief determiner of resemblance between relatives-
- Non-additive gene action
- Additive gene action — Correct Answer
- Linkage
- Pleiotropy
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Additive gene action
Additive gene action is the chief determiner of resemblance between relatives. Parents transmit individual alleles (not allele pairs) to their offspring. Only additive effects are reliably transmitted; dominance and epistatic effects are disrupted during meiosis.
Gene Action and Its Role
| Gene Action | Role |
|---|---|
| Additive (AGA) | Chief determiner of resemblance between relatives; basis of h²ɴ; polygenic inheritance; GCA |
| Non-additive (NAGA) | Heterosis; SCA; inbreeding depression; not reliably transmitted to next generation |
Practical implication: High h² (additive variance predominates) → high parent–offspring resemblance → individual selection is effective. Low h² → non-additive important → progeny testing more effective.
📚 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.
