Texas FFA Livestock Judging PracticeTest

The ancestry record of a specific animal is found in its what?

1. Genetic profile

2. Flock record

3. Pedigree

4. Breed standard

The correct answer is: Pedigree

The ancestry record of a specific animal is found in its pedigree. A pedigree is a documented lineage that details the ancestry of an animal, tracing its family tree and indicating its relationships to other individuals within the same or varied breeds. This record is essential for breeders who are looking to maintain or improve specific traits, document genetic history, or ensure purity within a breed. Pedigrees typically include information such as the names and registration numbers of the parents, grandparents, and often extend to several generations beyond. This documentation can be pivotal in breeding programs because it helps to identify inherited traits, potential genetic defects, and overall genetic diversity within the breed. In contrast, a genetic profile refers to the specific genetic makeup of an individual animal, identifying specific genes and traits rather than their ancestors. A flock record pertains to the management and performance records of a group of animals, rather than individual ancestry, while a breed standard outlines the ideal characteristics for animals of a particular breed, such as physical attributes and temperament, without specifically detailing their lineage.