A Level Biology Practice Exam

What is the primary aim of selective breeding?

1. To eliminate genetic disorders in populations

2. To increase genetic diversity in species

3. To select specific traits in plants or animals

4. To enhance the survival of all offspring

The correct answer is: To select specific traits in plants or animals

The primary aim of selective breeding is to select specific traits in plants or animals. This process involves choosing parent organisms with desirable characteristics to produce offspring that exhibit those traits more prominently. For example, breeders may select for traits like increased yield in crops, disease resistance, or specific physical attributes in livestock. While eliminating genetic disorders and enhancing the survival of offspring can be beneficial outcomes of selective breeding, they are not the main focus. Similarly, increasing genetic diversity is generally a goal of conservation efforts rather than selective breeding, which often intentionally reduces genetic variation by narrowing down the gene pool to emphasize specific traits. Thus, the correct answer highlights the specific intent of the practice, which is to achieve desired characteristics through controlled reproduction.