Quote Originally Posted by Evan Jamison
All inbreeding really does is concentrate the genes. This is not inherently bad, but if there are unwanted recessive genes in the mix (e.g. kinked spine or other deformity etc.) they will also be concentrated in the line. Line breeding is necessary to prove out some traits, and most breeders do it to some degree. Bringing new blood into a line (outcrossing) helps diversify the gene pool in a breeding group, but if an unwanted genetic deformity does pop up, it will not just go away. It will remain with a portion of the animals from that line indefinitely. One example is bugeye in texas ratsnakes. Even though most breeders cull the bugeyes, or sell them as non-breeder pets, all the normal offspring are potential carriers for the trait. Hope this helps .


-Evan

gold star for Evan!!