Based on DNA fingerprints, which horse is most likely the father?

DNA fingerprinting is a technique that analyzes specific regions of DNA that vary greatly among individuals. These variations help in identifying genetic relationships among organisms, including parentage determination.

In the case of determining paternity in horses using DNA fingerprints, the matching patterns of DNA segments between the offspring and potential fathers are critical. The correct answer indicates that Horse 3 has DNA segments that closely match those of the offspring, showing a high degree of similarity in the analyzed DNA markers. This suggests that Horse 3 has contributed genes to the offspring, making it the most likely father.

When analyzing the DNA fingerprints, the presence of certain markers that are present in the offspring and also in Horse 3, but not in the other horses, further supports this determination. These genetic markers serve as evidence that Horse 3 is the parent, as horses inherit half of their genetic material from each parent.

Thus, based on the patterns provided by the DNA fingerprints, Horse 3 stands out as the most probable father due to the conclusive matching of genetic traits between it and the offspring.