Why is it Bad to Cross Enigma x Enigma?

Art Geckos

Leo Breeder
Messages
263
Location
Reno, NV
Someone recently asked me, "Why is it bad to cross
Enigma to Enigma"? :main_robin:

The short answer, it increases the frequency and severity of ES [Enigma Syndrome]



A 'normal' Enigma, has genotype Gg. Where 'G' is the allele which codes for the Enigma traits (and is also linked with the dominant disorder, Enigma Syndrome). The little 'g' codes for normal, healthy protein products. This 'g' allele helps offset the defective protein products that result from ES; allowing the animal a certain level of normal functioning.

In this cross, 25% of offspring will be Homozygous Dominant (GG), so there are no normal alleles present; only two affected alleles, which will likely kill the animal before it even hatches. If it does hatch, it will be severely affected by ES, and have a miserable quality of life.

Thus, to avoid this disorder and produce well-balanced, healthy Enigmas, Outbreeding is a must. This means breeding an Enigma to a non-related, non-enigma. The more different the parents are from eachother, the higher the fitness of the offspring will be.

Genetic diversity is the key to any thriving population!
 

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