Select the incorrect statement.

Options

A. Inbreeding increases homozygosity.
B. Inbreeding is essential to evolve purelines in any animal.
C. Inbreeding selects harmful recessive genes that reduce fertility and productivity.
D. Inbreeding helps in accumulation of superior genes and elimination of undesirable genes.

Answer

To solve the question "Select the incorrect statement" regarding inbreeding, we will analyze the statements provided and identify which one is incorrect based on the principles of genetics.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand Inbreeding**: Inbreeding is the mating of closely related individuals within the same breed over several generations (4 to 5 generations). This process is used to increase homozygosity, which is the presence of identical alleles for a particular gene.

**Hint**: Recall the definition of inbreeding and its purpose in genetics.

2. **Analyze the Statements**:
- **Statement 1**: Inbreeding increases homozygosity.
- **Statement 2**: Inbreeding is essential to evolve a pure line.
- **Statement 3**: Inbreeding selects harmful recessive genes that reduce fertility and productivity.
- **Statement 4**: Inbreeding helps in the accumulation of superior genes and the elimination of undesirable genes.

**Hint**: Break down each statement to see if it aligns with the known effects of inbreeding.

3. **Evaluate Each Statement**:
- **Statement 1** is correct: Inbreeding does increase homozygosity.
- **Statement 2** is correct: Inbreeding is necessary for developing pure lines.
- **Statement 3** is incorrect: While inbreeding can expose harmful recessive genes, it does not select them; rather, it can lead to inbreeding depression, which reduces fertility and productivity.
- **Statement 4** is correct: Inbreeding can help accumulate superior genes and eliminate undesirable ones.

**Hint**: Consider the implications of inbreeding on gene selection and fertility.

4. **Identify the Incorrect Statement**: Based on the evaluation, the incorrect statement is **Statement 3**. It misrepresents the role of inbreeding in relation to harmful recessive genes.

**Hint**: Focus on the consequences of inbreeding and how it affects gene expression.

### Conclusion:
The incorrect statement regarding inbreeding is **Statement 3**: "Inbreeding selects harmful recessive genes that reduce fertility and productivity."