Animal Breeding and Genetics Quiz

What is the primary focus of mate recognition systems in mammals, herptiles, and avian species?

• To identify suitable habitats

• To recognize potential mates

• To locate food sources

• To avoid predators

Answer explanation

The primary focus of mate recognition systems in mammals, herptiles, and avian species is to recognize potential mates. This is crucial for reproduction and ensuring the continuation of species.

What is the purpose of body condition scoring in mammals?

• To assess the animal's age

• To evaluate the animal's health and fitness

• To determine the animal's genetic traits

• To measure the animal's reproductive success

Answer explanation

Body condition scoring is used to evaluate the animal's health and fitness by assessing fat reserves and overall body condition, which are indicators of nutritional status and well-being.

Which factor is NOT considered when assessing the suitability of animals for breeding?

• Posture and conformation

• Dietary preferences

• Skin/coat/feather color

• Mouth/teeth/beak

Answer explanation

Dietary preferences are not a primary factor in breeding suitability. Instead, posture, conformation, skin/coat/feather color, and mouth/teeth/beak are more relevant traits for assessing breeding potential.

What is the role of hormones in the identification of ovulation?

• To enhance physical strength

• To regulate body temperature

• To control the oestrous cycle

• To improve digestion

Answer explanation

Hormones play a crucial role in controlling the oestrous cycle, which includes the identification of ovulation. They regulate the timing and release of eggs, making this the correct choice.

Which of the following is a common problem in breeding animals?

• Increased lifespan

• Deformities in livestock

• Enhanced immune response

• Improved cognitive abilities

Answer explanation

Deformities in livestock are a common problem in breeding due to inbreeding and genetic selection, which can lead to health issues and physical abnormalities. This contrasts with the other options, which are generally positive outcomes.

What is the purpose of DNA screening in reproductive technologies?

• To identify genetic disorders

• To enhance physical strength

• To improve feeding habits

• To increase lifespan

Answer explanation

DNA screening in reproductive technologies is primarily used to identify genetic disorders in embryos, helping prospective parents make informed decisions about their reproductive options.

What is the effect of lethal alleles in gene interactions?

• They increase physical strength

• They improve reproductive success

• They cause the death of an organism

• They enhance genetic diversity

Answer explanation

Lethal alleles are genetic variants that can cause the death of an organism when present in certain combinations. Therefore, the correct answer is that they cause the death of an organism.

What is the first step in the process of genetic modification?

• Amplifying the gene

• Identifying and isolating the gene of interest

• Inserting the gene into plasmids

• Transferring the construct into recipient tissue

Answer explanation

The first step in genetic modification is identifying and isolating the gene of interest. This is crucial as it determines which specific gene will be modified or inserted into another organism.

What is the role of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in genetic modification?

• To enhance genetic diversity

• To improve animal welfare

• To increase reproductive success

• To regulate genetic modification of animals for the food industry

Answer explanation

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is responsible for regulating genetic modification in the food industry, ensuring safety and compliance with EU standards, making the correct choice 'To regulate genetic modification of animals for the food industry'.

Which of the following is NOT a reproductive technology?

• Natural selection

• Cloning

• Superovulation

• Artificial insemination

Answer explanation

Natural selection is a natural process of evolution, not a reproductive technology. In contrast, cloning, superovulation, and artificial insemination are all methods used to assist in reproduction.