Crossbreeding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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crossbreeding

[หˆkrษ’sหŒbriหdษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal breeding

The practice of mating closely related individuals, especially of different breeds, to produce offspring with desirable traits.

Synonyms

crossing, hybridization, interbreeding.

Examples of usage

  • Crossbreeding of different dog breeds often results in puppies with a unique combination of characteristics.
  • Crossbreeding can help increase genetic diversity within a population.
Context #2 | Noun

plant breeding

The intentional mating of two plants from different varieties or species to create new hybrids with specific characteristics.

Synonyms

crossing, hybridization, interbreeding.

Examples of usage

  • Crossbreeding of different tomato varieties can lead to plants with disease resistance and higher yields.
  • Farmers use crossbreeding techniques to develop crops that are better suited to specific growing conditions.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Agriculture

  • Farmers have used crossbreeding for centuries to enhance crop yields and create disease-resistant plants.
  • The famous 'Earligold' tomato was developed through crossbreeding to combine early maturation with rich flavor.

Genetics

  • Crossbreeding can result in hybrid vigor, where the offspring show improved traits compared to their parents.
  • However, crossbreeding can also lead to unexpected genetic traits, affecting the health and viability of the new generation.

Wildlife Conservation

  • Scientists sometimes use crossbreeding to enhance the genetic diversity of endangered species, helping to save them from extinction.
  • Examples include breeding different subspecies of wolves to promote resilience against diseases.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and literature, crossbreeding has been depicted dramatically, such as in 'Jurassic Park', where dinosaurs were hybridized, revealing both potential and peril.
  • The popular designer dog trend, like the Labradoodle, exemplifies how crossbreeding has captured public interest, blending traits of different breeds for companionship.

Origin of 'crossbreeding'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cross' comes from the Old English 'cros', referring to intersection, while 'breeding' relates to the Old English 'bredan', meaning to bring forth.
  • Crossbreeding combines genetic material from distinct species or varieties, contributing to biodiversity and new traits in offspring.

The practice of crossbreeding has a long history dating back to early agricultural societies. Farmers have been intentionally mating animals and plants to improve their characteristics for thousands of years. This practice has played a crucial role in the development of modern agriculture and the variety of breeds and varieties we have today.


See also: bred, breed, breeder, breeding, crossbreed, interbreed, interbreeding.