Question

Assertion (A): Continued close breeding usually reduces fertility and even productivity.
Reason (R): Inbreeding depression.

• (A) and (R) are correct, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
• (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
• (A) is correct, but (R) is incorrect
• (A) is incorrect, but (R) is correct

Hint:

Inbreeding depression occurs due to increased homozygosity of deleterious recessive alleles, reducing genetic fitness.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding Inbreeding Depression 
- Inbreeding leads to reduced genetic diversity, increasing the likelihood of harmful recessive traits.
- This can lower fertility and productivity in offspring. 

Step 2: Explanation of the Assertion 
- Inbreeding depression is the main reason for reduced fertility and productivity.
- Both (A) and (R) are correct, and (R) correctly explains (A). 

Step 3: Conclusion 
Since inbreeding depression explains reduced fertility and productivity, Option (1) is correct.