True Statements on Heritability
Which of the following is/are true about heritability-
- It is the regression of breeding value on phenotypic value in narrow sense
- It is the ratio of genotypic variance to phenotypic variance in broad sense
- It is fraction of parent superiority which is transmitted to the offspring
- All the above — Correct Answer
Explanation:
Correct Answer: All the above
All three statements correctly define heritability from different perspectives — statistical, quantitative genetic, and practical breeding angles.
Heritability — Three Key Definitions
| Definition | Formula / Meaning |
|---|---|
| Narrow sense (h²N) — Regression definition | h²N = bAP = regression of Breeding Value (A) on Phenotypic Value (P) |
| Broad sense (H²B) — Variance ratio | H²B = VG / VP = ratio of genotypic variance to phenotypic variance |
| Practical breeding definition | Fraction of parental superiority (selection differential) transmitted to offspring as response to selection: R = h² × S |
Key Related Formulae
- VP = VG + VE; VG = VA + VD + VI
- h²N = VA / VP (narrow sense — most useful in practice)
- H²B = (VA + VD + VI) / VP (broad sense)
- Range of heritability: 0 to 1
- Repeatability is the upper limit of heritability
📚 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.
