Selecting for plants and animals with useful traits?

Selecting for plants and animals with useful traits, known as selective breeding or artificial selection, involves choosing individuals that exhibit desirable characteristics, such as higher yield, disease resistance, or improved flavor in plants, and increased productivity or temperament in animals. This practice has been pivotal in agriculture and livestock management, enhancing food security and efficiency. By carefully controlling reproduction, breeders can enhance specific traits over generations, leading to significant improvements in both crop and livestock performance. However, it is essential to balance these selections with considerations for biodiversity and ecological health.