1. What is the Inbreeding Coefficient?

The inbreeding coefficient (F) measures the probability that two alleles at any locus in an individual are identical by descent. It quantifies the genetic relatedness resulting from consanguineous matings in a pedigree.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the inbreeding coefficient formula:

Where:

• \( n1 \) — Number of generations from individual to common ancestor through one parent
• \( n2 \) — Number of generations from individual to common ancestor through the other parent
• \( F_A \) — Inbreeding coefficient of the common ancestor

Explanation: The formula calculates the probability that two alleles inherited from different paths are identical by considering the generational distance and the ancestor's own inbreeding level.

3. Importance of Inbreeding Coefficient Calculation

Details: Calculating inbreeding coefficients is crucial in population genetics, animal breeding, and human genetics to assess genetic diversity, predict recessive disorder risks, and manage breeding programs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of generations to the common ancestor through each parent (n1 and n2) and the inbreeding coefficient of the common ancestor (F_A). Values must be valid (n1, n2 ≥ 0; 0 ≤ F_A ≤ 1).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does an inbreeding coefficient of 0 mean?
A: An F value of 0 indicates no inbreeding - the parents are completely unrelated and there's no identity by descent.

Q2: What is considered a high inbreeding coefficient?
A: Values above 0.0625 (equivalent to first cousin mating) are generally considered significant, with higher values indicating closer relationships.

Q3: How does the common ancestor's inbreeding affect the calculation?
A: If the common ancestor is itself inbred (F_A > 0), this increases the probability of identity by descent in the offspring.

Q4: Can this calculator handle complex pedigrees with multiple paths?
A: This calculator computes for a single path. For multiple paths, you would need to calculate each path separately and sum the results.

Q5: What are the practical applications of inbreeding coefficients?
A: Used in conservation biology to maintain genetic diversity, in agriculture for selective breeding, and in medical genetics to assess recessive disease risks.