AS and A Level Biology 16 Views 1 Answers
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SouravNovember 1, 2024

Explain that the random fusion of gametes at fertilisation produces genetically different individuals

Explain that the random fusion of gametes at fertilisation produces genetically different individuals

Sourav
SouravNovember 1, 2024

Answered step-by-step

The random fusion of gametes during fertilization is a critical process that contributes to the genetic diversity of individuals in sexually reproducing organisms. Here’s an explanation of how this process works and why it results in genetically different individuals:

1. Gamete Formation and Genetic Variation

  • Haploid Gametes: In sexual reproduction, organisms produce gametes (sperm and egg cells) through meiosis, which reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in haploid cells. Each gamete carries a unique combination of genetic information due to two main processes during meiosis: crossing over and independent assortment.
  • Genetic Diversity in Gametes:
    • Crossing Over: As described earlier, crossing over during prophase I of meiosis results in recombinant chromosomes, leading to gametes that contain different combinations of alleles.
    • Independent Assortment: The random orientation of homologous chromosomes during metaphase I allows for a vast number of possible combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes in each gamete.

2. Fertilization

  • Random Fusion of Gametes: When fertilization occurs, a sperm cell from the male randomly fuses with an egg cell from the female. Each sperm and egg carry unique genetic material due to the processes of meiosis.
  • Genetic Combinations: The combination of alleles from the two gametes results in a diploid zygote, which has a new and unique set of chromosomes. The genetic makeup of the zygote is influenced by:
    • The specific sperm that fertilizes the egg.
    • The genetic contributions from both parents.

3. Genetic Variation in Offspring

  • Unique Individuals: The random nature of gamete fusion means that even siblings produced by the same parents will have different genetic makeups (except in the case of identical twins). Each offspring has a unique combination of alleles inherited from both the mother and the father, leading to genetic diversity within a population.
  • Examples of Genetic Variation:
    • Traits such as eye color, hair color, and susceptibility to certain diseases are influenced by the combination of alleles inherited from both parents.
    • The genetic diversity created through random fusion of gametes is crucial for the adaptability and evolution of species, allowing populations to respond to environmental changes.

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