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Definition

noun

The act or process of producing offspring by mating purebred individuals of different breeds, varieties or species.

Supplement

Crossbreeding is usually done with the intent of producing offspring that share the traits of both parent lineages, especially if the traits are beneficial. However, an irresponsible crossbreeding can also produce animals of inferior quality or weaken purebred gene pool.

Related terms: crossbreed (verb), crossbred (adjective).

Synonym: hybridization.