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backcross
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backcross

genetics
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Also known as: topcross
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Related Topics:
inbreeding
grading
himene
See all related content

backcross, the mating of a hybrid organism (offspring of genetically unlike parents) with one of its parents or with an organism genetically similar to the parent. The backcross is useful in genetics studies for isolating (separating out) certain characteristics in a related group of animals or plants. In animal breeding, a backcross is often called a topcross. Grading usually refers to the mating of average, or “grade,” females to a superior male, then backcrossing the female offspring to the same or a similar sire.