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A pedigree is a record of inheritance of a specific genetic trait for two or more generations which is presented in the form of a diagram or family tree. Pedigree analysis is an analysis of several generations of a family which is used on human beings and domesticated animals.
Usefulness of pedigree analysis:
• Serves as a powerful tool which can be used to trace the inheritance of a particular trait, disease or an abnormality
• It is helpful for genetic counsellors to suggest couples about the possibility of having children with genetic abnormalities such as colour blindness, haemophobia, thalassaemia, sickle cell anaemia etc
• The analysis is helpful in indicating the origination of a trait and its flow in ancestors
• It is helpful in suggesting that Mendel’s principles can be applied to human genetics with some alteration such as quantitative inheritance, sex-related linkage and characters
• Helpful in reasoning why marriage between close relatives is harmful
• Helpful in extensive research in the field of medical science