noun
- the breeding of animals that are more distantly related than in inbreeding, typically to maintain desirable traits while reducing genetic problems
Usage: animal husbandry and genetics term; also called line breeding
Examples
- Breeders use linebreeding to strengthen specific characteristics in dog breeds.
- Linebreeding is less extreme than inbreeding but still carries some genetic risks.
- The farmer practiced linebreeding to improve milk production in his cattle herd.
- Linebreeding requires careful record-keeping to track family relationships.
- Many pedigree animals are produced through controlled linebreeding programs.