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In Genetics
What does inbreeding mean?
There are two possible meanings, both relate to the same practice. Inbreeding (which results in inbred offspring, is where veryclosely related parents mate (this can be in th…e animal and plantworlds). Extremes of inbreeding can be: brother and sister, father anddaughter, mother and son. More common forms of inbreeding occursbetween cousins. Inbreeding in animals normally always results in geneticabnormalities, this may not be very apparent with first generationoffspring, but if the practice continues can result in some serious(degenerative) disfigurements or diminished mental capacity. However: In plants (as well show animals and livestock) the practice ofinbreeding is used extensively to reinforce positive or desirablegenetic traits within a breeding line. For example, a cat breeder may breed her pure bred Persian cat withone of the offspring from a previous litter (from the same cat) inorder to reinforce a particular genetic characteristic. ( Full Answer )