If a trait has high heritability, it is likely to show a relatively large response to selection.

If a trait has high heritability, it is likely to show a relatively large response to selection.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Only under certain environments
• D. It cannot respond to selection

Answer: (A)

High heritability means most of the observed variation for the trait is due to additive genetic factors, not the environment. In selection, the expected response in the next generation is given by the breeder’s equation: R = h^2 × S, where S is the selection differential (the average superiority of the selected parents over the population). So, when h^2 is high, the same amount of selection leads to a larger genetic gain, making the trait respond more strongly to selection. Keep in mind that heritability is context-dependent (population and environment) and the actual response also depends on the size of the selection differential and the amount of additive genetic variation available. But all else equal, high heritability tends to produce a larger response to selection.

High heritability means most of the observed variation for the trait is due to additive genetic factors, not the environment. In selection, the expected response in the next generation is given by the breeder’s equation: R = h^2 × S, where S is the selection differential (the average superiority of the selected parents over the population). So, when h^2 is high, the same amount of selection leads to a larger genetic gain, making the trait respond more strongly to selection.

Keep in mind that heritability is context-dependent (population and environment) and the actual response also depends on the size of the selection differential and the amount of additive genetic variation available. But all else equal, high heritability tends to produce a larger response to selection.