Relationship Between Heritability and Heterosis
Traits governed by non-additive gene action are reproductive traits (e.g.: fertility, viability, fitness trait, hatchability, calving, litter size) & they have low heritability. So if heritability of trait is low, heterosis will be-
- Low
- High — Correct Answer
- Medium
- Absent
Explanation:
Correct Answer: High (degree of heterosis)
Traits governed by non-additive gene action (like reproductive traits — fertility, viability, litter size) show high degree of heterosis. This is because heterosis is dependent on non-additive gene action (dominance + over-dominance + epistasis).
Relationship Between Heritability and Heterosis
| Heritability (h²) | Heterosis | Gene Action | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low h² | High heterosis | Non-additive | Fertility, Litter size, Viability, Survival rate |
| High h² | Low heterosis | Additive | Growth rate, Milk yield, Wool weight |
Heritability of Different Traits
- Reproductive traits: Low h² (high heterosis) — fertility, litter size
- Productive traits: Medium h² — milk yield, egg production
- Growth traits: High h² (low heterosis) — body weight, growth rate
📚 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.
