High School

How does artificial insemination help with genetic improvement? (Choose all that apply.)

Group of answer choices:
1. Increases generation interval
2. Increases selection intensity
3. Decreases generation interval
4. Increases accuracy

Answer :

Artificial insemination is a reproductive technology that involves the deliberate introduction of sperm into a female's reproductive system. This technology is widely used in animal breeding and has several advantages when it comes to genetic improvement. Let's consider the multiple-choice options:

  1. Increases generation interval: This statement is generally not true. Artificial insemination often allows for quicker breeding cycles, thus it can actually decrease the generation interval.

  2. Increases selection intensity: This is true. Artificial insemination allows breeders to have access to superior male genetics from around the world. By using the best possible males, selection intensity is increased, which means you can more strongly select for desirable traits.

  3. Decreases generation interval: This can be true. By enabling faster and more controlled breeding processes, artificial insemination can accelerate the breeding cycles and reduce the generation interval, leading to quicker genetic improvements.

  4. Increases accuracy: This is true. Due to the availability of detailed genetic information and records with artificial insemination, the accuracy of selecting animals with desirable traits increases. Hence, the likelihood of passing on these traits improves, enhancing genetic improvement.

Therefore, the statements that apply to how artificial insemination helps in genetic improvement are:

  • Increases selection intensity
  • Decreases generation interval
  • Increases accuracy