the nature of heredity. brainstorm genetics how do we get the traits we get? why do i have green...
TRANSCRIPT
How do we get the traits we get? Why do I have green eyes, you have brown, blue, green eyes etc.? Why do we all look so different?
Genetics: the scientific study of heredity and variation or inherited characteristics
Heredity: the passing of traits from parent to offspring
Genetic Material
Gene
A sequence of nucleotides forming a section of a chromosome
Codes for a specific protein
“packets” of hereditary info that is passed from generation to generation
Locus
The specific location of a gene on a chromosome
Allele
A specific form of a gene
Chromosomes
Carry info for traits
Each species has a characteristic # of chromosomes per body cell
Body cells (somatic) and gametes (sex cells) have different number of chromosomes
Haploid: a cell containing half the usual # of chromosomes (n)
Diploid: a cell containing two copies of each chromosome (2n)
Asexual Reproduction
Almost always involves cell division
Results in offspring that are genetically identical to single parent
Advantages
No mate needed
Nothing left to chance
Disadvantages
Lack of variability and adaptation
Sexual Reproduction
Results in offspring that are genetically variable
Offspring inherit half of their genetic info from each of two parents
Disadvantages
Need a partner
Need specialized organs
Genetic info may be passed that makes organism weak
Advantages
Variability/adaptation