testcross

[test-kraws, -kros]

testcross Definition

• 1. a cross between an organism whose genotype for a certain trait is unknown and an organism that is homozygous recessive for that trait so the unknown genotype can be determined from that of the offspring
• 2. a genetic test to determine if an organism is homozygous dominant or heterozygous for a certain trait

Using testcross: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "testcross" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  To determine whether the tall pea plant was homozygous dominant or heterozygous, Mendel performed a testcross with a short pea plant.

• Example

  The testcross revealed that the unknown genotype was heterozygous for the trait in question.

testcross Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for testcross

• backcross
• reciprocal cross

Phrases with testcross

• backcross test

  a testcross in which the hybrid offspring is crossed with one of the parents

  Example

  The backcross test revealed that the hybrid offspring was heterozygous for the trait in question.

• reciprocal testcross

  a testcross in which the sexes of the two organisms are reversed

  Example

  The reciprocal testcross confirmed the results of the initial testcross.

Origins of testcross

from 'test' meaning 'to ascertain' and 'cross' meaning 'to breed'

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Summary: testcross in Brief

'Testcross' [test-kraws, -kros] is a noun that refers to a genetic test used to determine the genotype of an organism for a certain trait. It involves crossing an organism with an unknown genotype with one that is homozygous recessive for that trait. The resulting offspring can reveal whether the unknown genotype is homozygous dominant or heterozygous. 'Testcross' is also known as a 'backcross' or 'reciprocal cross.'