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Interbreeding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงฌ
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interbreeding

[หŒษชntษ™rหˆbriหdษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

animal breeding

The act of mating or breeding between individuals that are closely related genetically.

Synonyms

breeding, crossbreeding, mating.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interbreeding

Specifically refers to breeding between different species or distinct groups within a species. It often implies mixing of genetic material from different populations.

  • There is evidence of interbreeding between Neanderthals and early modern humans.
  • Scientists are studying the effects of interbreeding between wild and domesticated species.
crossbreeding

Involves mating two different breeds or species to create a hybrid with traits from both parents. Often used in agriculture and livestock industries.

  • Crossbreeding can result in hybrid vigor, improving livestock performance.
  • Farmers often engage in crossbreeding to develop hardier plant varieties.
mating

Refers specifically to the act of animals coming together to reproduce. Often used in the context of observing natural animal behaviors.

  • The mating season for deer typically starts in late autumn.
  • Scientists observed the mating rituals of exotic birds in the wild.
breeding

General term used for the process of animals or plants producing offspring. Also used in discussions about the maintenance and improvement of species' traits.

  • Selective breeding has led to more resilient crops.
  • Dog breeding requires a lot of knowledge about genetics.

Examples of usage

  • Interbreeding between different species can lead to hybrid offspring.
  • Inbreeding and interbreeding can result in genetic disorders in animals.
Context #2 | Noun

genetics

The mixing of genetic material from individuals of the same species but different populations.

Synonyms

gene flow, genetic exchange.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interbreeding

This term is commonly used in discussions about the reproduction between different species or populations within a species. It often implies a controlled or natural process of mating.

  • The interbreeding of wolves and domestic dogs can sometimes result in hybrid offspring
gene flow

This phrase is often used in evolutionary biology to describe the transfer of genetic material between populations or species. It highlights the movement of genes rather than the act of mating itself.

  • Gene flow between different bird populations can introduce new genetic variations, which can be beneficial for adaptation
genetic exchange

This is a broader term that can refer to any process where genetic material is exchanged, including horizontal gene transfer and reproduction. It is often used in scientific and technical contexts.

  • Scientists study genetic exchange to understand how bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics

Examples of usage

  • Interbreeding among populations can increase genetic diversity within a species.
  • The lack of interbreeding can lead to genetic isolation and speciation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Biology

  • Interbreeding can enhance genetic diversity, allowing species to adapt better to changing environments.
  • Hybrid vigor, or heterosis, often results from interbreeding, leading to offspring that are more robust than their parents.

Agriculture

  • Farmers often use interbreeding to develop stronger crop varieties, which can resist diseases and pests.
  • Selective interbreeding in livestock can enhance desirable traits, like milk production or size.

Conservation

  • In wildlife conservation, interbreeding can be a strategy to help endangered species increase their population size and improve genetic health.
  • However, interbreeding between different species can sometimes pose ecological risks, leading to hybrid species that alter local ecosystems.

Ethics

  • Interbreeding raises ethical questions, especially in humans and pets, regarding the implications of genetic manipulation.
  • Concerns about the welfare of hybrid animals, including health issues that arise from specific combinations.

Origin of 'interbreeding'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from 'inter-', meaning 'among' or 'between', and 'breeding', which refers to reproduction.
  • The modern understanding of the term has roots in genetic studies that date back to the 19th century.

The term 'interbreeding' originated in the early 19th century to describe the process of breeding or mating between individuals of the same or different species. It is commonly used in the fields of genetics, biology, and animal breeding to refer to the exchange of genetic material between populations or closely related individuals.

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

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,193 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.