Campbell Biology (11th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0-13409-341-0
ISBN 13: 978-0-13409-341-3

Chapter 13 - 13.4 - Concept Check - Page 267: 2

Answer

Without crossing over, the genetic variation in gametes would only be due to the possible number of chromosome sets generated by random assignment of one copy of each chromosome to each gamete, $2^{n}$. Since n is greater in grasshoppers, there would be more diversity in their offspring ($2^{23}$ in grasshoppers vs $2^{4}$ in fruit flies).

Work Step by Step

This question asks you to review the mathematics behind cell division/genetic diversity as well as to recognize how genetic recombination can greatly enhance genetic diversity.
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