What are two reasons we test males and not females?

• A. Genetic diversity and reproduction rate
• B. Cost (and time) and contribution to next generation
• C. Safety concerns and ease of sampling
• D. Age and size differences

Answer: (B)

The main idea is about practical efficiency and how genetic information is passed on. Testing males is often chosen because it saves time and money: a single male can sire many offspring, so figuring out his genotype or carrier status quickly informs the genetics of a large number of progeny. This makes the testing effort pay off sooner and for more animals. In contrast, females typically produce fewer offspring and may require longer cycles (gestation, multiple matings, or waiting for births), increasing cost and time per animal tested. So the two reasons are: cost (and time) and the fact that a male’s genotype influences the next generation for many offspring. The other options don’t capture these practical testing advantages as directly.