back-cross (C1)
noun
Pronunciation: ˈbækˌkrɒs
Definition
A crossbreeding technique where an organism with a specific trait is crossed with one of its ancestors that possesses the desired trait, in order to reintroduce or reinforce that trait.
Examples
The geneticist performed a back-cross to ensure the offspring inherited the disease resistance from the parent line.
Back-crossing is a common method in plant breeding to develop new varieties with improved characteristics.
How to Use back-cross
- back-cross with (prepositional phrase)
- To perform a back-cross using a specific ancestor or type. — "The researchers will back-cross the transgenic mice with the wild type to confirm gene integration."
- back-cross to (prepositional phrase)
- To perform a back-cross towards a specific ancestor or type. — "They chose to back-cross the hybrid to a parent known for its drought resistance."
Synonyms of back-cross
Words with a similar meaning to back-cross:
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