What is the process of animal selection based on performance traits called?

The process of animal selection based on performance traits is referred to as genetic selection. This method involves assessing individuals' traits, such as growth rate, reproductive efficiency, and overall health, to choose the most suitable animals for breeding. By focusing on genetic attributes, producers can enhance desirable traits in future generations, leading to improved performance and productivity in their livestock. This approach is rooted in the understanding that performance traits are often inherited, allowing for strategic selection aimed at optimizing herd or flock performance over time.

Other options like behavioral assessment focus mainly on the animals' behaviors, which, while informative, do not specifically target performance traits for breeding decisions. Physical evaluation assesses the conformation and health of the animal but does not necessarily correlate with performance traits. A breeding plan incorporates various aspects of breeding but is not solely dedicated to the selection process itself. Thus, genetic selection is the most precise term for selecting animals based on performance traits.