Which term describes human-directed breeding to pass traits to the next generation?

Which term describes human-directed breeding to pass traits to the next generation?

• A. Selective breeding
• B. Natural selection
• C. Descent with modification
• D. Embryology

Answer: (A)

Human-directed breeding to pass traits to the next generation is selective breeding. This process relies on heritable variation and deliberate choice of which individuals reproduce based on desirable traits, so those traits become more common in future generations. Over generations, consistent selection for a trait—like larger fruit size or specific behavior—shapes the population. This is a form of artificial selection, distinguished from natural selection, which happens without human guidance and is driven by environmental pressures. Descent with modification is the general pattern of evolution Darwin described, not a specific breeding method, and embryology is the study of embryo development. So the best term for human-directed mating to pass traits onward is selective breeding.

Human-directed breeding to pass traits to the next generation is selective breeding. This process relies on heritable variation and deliberate choice of which individuals reproduce based on desirable traits, so those traits become more common in future generations. Over generations, consistent selection for a trait—like larger fruit size or specific behavior—shapes the population. This is a form of artificial selection, distinguished from natural selection, which happens without human guidance and is driven by environmental pressures. Descent with modification is the general pattern of evolution Darwin described, not a specific breeding method, and embryology is the study of embryo development. So the best term for human-directed mating to pass traits onward is selective breeding.