A hypothetical study investigated the vitamin A content and the cholesterol content of eggs from a large population of chickens. The following variances (V) were calculated.

Which trait, if either, is likely to respond to selection? <>

Key Concepts

Heritability

Heritability refers to the proportion of observed variation in a trait that can be attributed to genetic factors, as opposed to environmental influences. In the context of selection, traits with high heritability are more likely to respond positively to selective breeding, as their genetic basis allows for consistent transmission of desirable characteristics to offspring.

Phenotypic Variance

Phenotypic variance is the total variation observed in a trait within a population, which includes both genetic variance and environmental variance. Understanding the components of phenotypic variance is crucial for predicting how traits like vitamin A and cholesterol content in eggs may respond to selection, as traits with greater genetic variance are more amenable to change through selective pressures.

Selection Pressure

Selection pressure refers to the environmental factors that influence the reproductive success of individuals within a population. Traits that confer a survival or reproductive advantage under specific conditions are more likely to be favored by selection. In the study of chicken eggs, understanding the selection pressures related to vitamin A and cholesterol content can help determine which trait may be more effectively enhanced through breeding.