Artificial selection
Artificial selection
Artificial selection (pronunciation: /ɑːrˈtɪfɪʃəl sɪˈlɛkʃən/), also known as selective breeding, is a process used by humans to develop new organisms with desirable characteristics. The term was coined by Charles Darwin to contrast with natural selection, where the differential reproduction and survival of individuals is due to differences in phenotype.
Etymology
The term "artificial selection" originates from the mid-19th century, and was first used by Charles Darwin in his 1859 book, On the Origin of Species. The term is derived from the Latin artificium meaning "craftsmanship, craft, or art" and selectio meaning "choosing, choice, or selection".
Process
Artificial selection involves intentionally breeding organisms with desirable traits in order to produce offspring with similar desirable characteristics or with improvements. This process is often used in the breeding of domesticated animals and in the cultivation of plant species by horticulturists and farmers.
Related terms
- Selective breeding: The process of breeding plants and animals for particular genetic traits.
- Domestication: The process of adapting wild plants and animals for human use.
- Genetic engineering: The direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology.
- Mutation breeding: A method of plant breeding that involves inducing mutations and then selecting the beneficial ones.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Artificial selection
- Wikipedia's article - Artificial selection
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