What is the process of "selective breeding"?

Selective breeding is a process where specific animals are chosen to reproduce based on particular desirable traits. This method is widely used in agriculture and animal husbandry to enhance qualities such as size, temperament, disease resistance, and productivity in livestock and pets. By selecting animals that exhibit these favored characteristics, breeders can increase the likelihood that offspring will inherit these traits, thereby improving future generations over time.

In contrast, the emphasis on physical appearance alone does not capture the broader genetic considerations involved in selective breeding. While genetic modification does involve selecting for specific traits, it employs biotechnology to alter genetic structures rather than traditional breeding methods. Additionally, mixing different species can lead to hybrid vigor, but it does not focus on the nuanced selection of traits within a species, which is central to the concept of selective breeding.