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Multiple Choice
What determines the presence of orange color in tortoiseshell and calico cats?
A
The age of the cat
B
The genotype of the cat, specifically the alleles on the X chromosome
C
The diet of the cat during its development
D
The amount of sunlight the cat is exposed to
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that tortoiseshell and calico cats exhibit a unique color pattern due to genetic factors, specifically related to the X chromosome.
Recognize that the orange color in these cats is determined by the presence of specific alleles on the X chromosome. These alleles are responsible for the pigmentation in the fur.
Learn that female cats have two X chromosomes, allowing for a combination of alleles that can result in the tortoiseshell or calico pattern. Male cats typically have one X and one Y chromosome, which affects their color pattern differently.
Explore the concept of X-inactivation, which occurs in female mammals. This process randomly inactivates one of the X chromosomes in each cell, leading to the mosaic pattern seen in tortoiseshell and calico cats.
Consider how genetic inheritance and the random nature of X-inactivation contribute to the unique color patterns in these cats, rather than external factors like age, diet, or sunlight exposure.