Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Tree breeding and population genetics require precise hierarchical definitions to categorize genetic groups within a species.
Step 2: Detailed Explation:
Let us evaluate the given options:
- Sibling: In genetics, siblings are individuals that share one (half-siblings) or both (full-siblings) parents.
A family in tree breeding is defined as a group of offspring derived from a single cross or open-pollited mother.
Hence, a group of individuals belonging to the same family within a species are genetically referred to as siblings.
- Race: A race is a sub-population within a species that exhibits distinct, inherited phenotypic or physiological traits, usually associated with geographic or ecological isolation (provence).
This is a much broader category than a single family.
- Clone: A clone is a group of genetically identical individuals vegetatively derived from a single parent.
- Population: A population is a group of interbreeding individuals of the same species occupying a specific area, regardless of family boundaries.
Thus, siblings precisely represent the group of individuals within a specific family.
Step 3: Fil Answer:
The term referring to a group of individuals within a family of a species is sibling.
Hence, the correct option is (D).