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Multiple Choice
Which of the following traits is controlled by multiple alleles in humans?
A
Height
B
Skin color
C
Blood type
D
Eye color
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of multiple alleles: Multiple alleles refer to the presence of more than two alleles for a genetic trait within a population. However, an individual can only have two of these alleles, one inherited from each parent.
Identify traits controlled by multiple alleles: In humans, blood type is a classic example of a trait controlled by multiple alleles. The ABO blood group system is determined by three alleles: I^A, I^B, and i.
Differentiate between multiple alleles and polygenic traits: Traits like height and skin color are controlled by multiple genes (polygenic inheritance), not multiple alleles. These traits are influenced by the interaction of several genes, each contributing to the phenotype.
Recognize the genetic basis of blood type: The ABO blood group system involves the combination of the three alleles (I^A, I^B, and i) to produce four possible blood types: A, B, AB, and O.
Conclude why blood type is the correct answer: Since blood type is determined by multiple alleles (I^A, I^B, and i), it fits the definition of a trait controlled by multiple alleles, unlike the other traits listed.