OUTCROSSED Meaning and
Definition
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Outcrossed is an adjective that refers to the breeding practice of mating individuals from different, unrelated lineages or breeds within the same species. This term is commonly used in the field of genetics, particularly in the context of plant and animal breeding. When individuals from genetically distant groups are bred together, it is known as outcrossing.
The purpose of outcrossing is to introduce genetic diversity into a population, thereby minimizing the risks associated with inbreeding such as reduced fertility, increased vulnerability to diseases, and decreased adaptability. By merging the genetic material from two separate lineages, outcrossing helps to maintain vigor, vitality, and adaptability in succeeding generations.
In plant breeding, outcrossing can be facilitated by practices like controlled pollination, cross-pollination by wind or insects, or manually transferring pollen between different varieties. Animal breeders commonly use outcrossing to enhance genetic variation and improve the overall health and performance of the offspring. It can be achieved through controlled mating procedures or by allowing animals to mate freely within a population.
Outcrossing can also be a strategy employed in wildlife conservation efforts, where the aim is to prevent inbreeding depression and preserve the genetic integrity of endangered species. It allows for the introduction of genes from different populations to increase overall genetic diversity, enhancing the chances of survival and adaptation in the face of changing environments.
Common Misspellings for OUTCROSSED
Etymology of OUTCROSSED
The word "outcrossed" is derived from the combination of two words: "out" and "crossed".
The term "out" originates from the Old English word "ūt", which means "outside" or "away from" something. This word has remained relatively unchanged over time and is still commonly used in modern English.
The word "crossed" is derived from the verb "to cross", which comes from the Old English word "crosian" or "cros", meaning "to go or put across". It is often used to describe the act of breeding individuals from different genetic backgrounds or strains in order to introduce new traits, increase biodiversity, or avoid inbreeding.
When these two words are combined to form "outcrossed", it refers to the process of breeding an individual or organism with an individual or organism from a different genetic lineage or population.
