test cross
/ˈtɛstˌkrɔs/
noun
- A genetic breeding experiment where an individual with an unknown genotype is crossed with a homozygous recessive individual to determine the unknown genotype.
- A test-cross is a useful tool for breeders who want to know the genetic makeup of their animals.
- In biology class, we performed a test-cross with fruit flies to see which ones carried the recessive trait.
- The farmer used a test-cross to find out if the pea plant was pure for yellow seeds.