How many different types of gametes can be formed by individuals of the following genotypes: (a) AaBb (b) AaBB (c) AaBbCc (d) AaBBcc (e) AaBbcc (f) AaBbCcDdEe What are the gametes in each case?
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Step 1: Recall the principle of independent assortment. The number of different types of gametes an individual can produce depends on the number of heterozygous loci in their genotype. Each heterozygous locus contributes two possible alleles to the gametes.
Step 2: For each genotype, count the number of heterozygous loci. For example, in the genotype AaBb, both loci (A/a and B/b) are heterozygous, so there are two heterozygous loci.
Step 3: Use the formula 2^n to calculate the number of gametes, where n is the number of heterozygous loci. For example, if there are two heterozygous loci, the number of gametes is 2^2 = 4.
Step 4: Determine the specific combinations of alleles for each gamete. For example, for AaBb, the possible gametes are AB, Ab, aB, and ab. This is done by combining one allele from each locus in all possible ways.
Step 5: Repeat the process for each genotype provided in the problem: (a) AaBb, (b) AaBB, (c) AaBbCc, (d) AaBBcc, (e) AaBbcc, and (f) AaBbCcDdEe. For each genotype, calculate the number of gametes using the formula and list the specific gametes by combining alleles from each locus.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Gamete Formation
Gamete formation is the process by which diploid organisms produce haploid cells (gametes) through meiosis. Each gamete carries one allele from each gene, leading to genetic variation. The number of different types of gametes that can be formed is determined by the combinations of alleles present in the organism's genotype.
Independent assortment is a principle of genetics stating that alleles for different genes segregate independently of one another during gamete formation. This means that the inheritance of one trait generally does not influence the inheritance of another, allowing for a variety of combinations in the resulting gametes.
A Punnett square is a diagram used to predict the genetic makeup of offspring from a particular cross. It helps visualize the combinations of alleles from each parent, making it easier to determine the types and frequencies of gametes produced. This tool is essential for understanding the outcomes of genetic crosses and the potential gametes formed.