1. What is the Coefficient of Inbreeding?

The coefficient of inbreeding (F) is a measure of the probability that two alleles at any locus in an individual are identical by descent from a common ancestor. It quantifies the level of inbreeding in a pedigree.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Wright's coefficient formula:

Where:

• \( F \) — Inbreeding coefficient (dimensionless)
• \( n \) — Path length (number of generations)
• \( F_a \) — Ancestor inbreeding coefficient
• \( \sum \) — Summation over all paths

Explanation: The formula calculates the probability that two alleles are identical by descent by summing over all possible paths through common ancestors in the pedigree.

3. Importance of Inbreeding Coefficient

Details: The inbreeding coefficient is crucial in genetics, animal breeding, and conservation biology for assessing genetic diversity, predicting inbreeding depression, and managing breeding programs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the path length (number of generations), ancestor inbreeding coefficient (0 if unknown), and number of equivalent paths. All values must be valid positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does F=0 mean?
A: F=0 indicates no inbreeding - the individual has no common ancestors in its pedigree.

Q2: What is considered a high inbreeding coefficient?
A: F>0.125 is considered high and may lead to inbreeding depression. F=0.25 represents parent-offspring or full-sibling mating.

Q3: How is path length determined?
A: Path length (n) is the number of generations from the individual back to the common ancestor and forward to the other parent.

Q4: What are the limitations of this calculation?
A: Assumes no selection, mutation, or migration. Accuracy depends on complete pedigree information.

Q5: How is this used in animal breeding?
A: Breeders use F to manage genetic diversity, avoid inbreeding depression, and maintain healthy populations.