Selektion

Selektion is a term used in biology and related disciplines to describe the process by which certain individuals, traits, or options are chosen over others according to specific criteria. In German, it translates to 'selection'; in English-language science, the concept is most often discussed as natural or artificial selection.

In evolutionary biology, natural selection acts on heritable variation. Individuals with advantageous traits have higher reproductive success, passing these traits to the next generation. Over many generations, selective pressures such as predators, climate, and food availability shape populations.

Common modes of natural selection include directional selection, which shifts trait values in one direction; stabilizing selection, which reduces variation around an optimum; and disruptive selection, which favors extreme values over intermediates. Frequency-dependent selection and sexual selection also contribute to evolution.

Artificial selection, or selective breeding, is the deliberate choosing of individuals with desirable traits to reproduce. It underpins agriculture and animal husbandry, producing crops with higher yields or livestock with favored characteristics, but can reduce genetic diversity and increase inherited disorders.

In genetics and microbiology, selection describes a laboratory process that favors cells carrying a marker or trait. Antibiotic selection uses a drug to ensure only resistant cells survive; selectable markers enable identification of cells that have incorporated a vector.

In statistics and research, selection effects or selection bias occur when the sample is not representative of the population, potentially distorting conclusions. Awareness of confounding selection factors is essential for valid inference in observational studies.

Beyond biology and science, 'Selektion' can denote the general act of choosing among alternatives in decision making, markets, and cultural practices. The concept highlights how criteria, environment, and context influence which elements prevail.