Which of the following statements about sex determination in Drosophil...
In Drosophila, the sex determination mechanism relies on the ratio of X chromosomes to autosomes. The balance between X chromosomes and autosomal sets determines whether an individual develops as male or female.
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Which of the following statements about sex determination in Drosophil...
Understanding Sex Determination in Drosophila
Sex determination in Drosophila (fruit flies) is a fascinating topic in genetics. The process is primarily governed by the ratio of sex chromosomes (X chromosomes) to the number of sets of autosomes (non-sex chromosomes).
The Key Role of X to Autosome Ratio
- X Chromosomes: Drosophila have two sex chromosomes, X and Y. Females possess two X chromosomes (XX), while males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY).
- Autosomes: These are the non-sex chromosomes. Drosophila have a specific number of autosomes that contribute to the overall chromosome count.
- Ratio Determines Sex: The critical factor for determining sex in Drosophila is the ratio of X chromosomes to the number of sets of autosomes.
- A ratio of 1 (i.e., two X chromosomes to one set of autosomes) results in a female.
- A ratio of 0.5 (i.e., one X chromosome to one set of autosomes) results in a male.
Why Other Options are Incorrect
- Option A (Females have two X chromosomes): This statement is true but doesn't explain the mechanism of sex determination.
- Option B (Males have two Y chromosomes): This is incorrect; males have one Y chromosome.
- Option D (Sex determination is random and independent of genetic factors): This is false; sex determination is a genetic process influenced by specific chromosome ratios.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct and most relevant statement regarding sex determination in Drosophila is option C, as it highlights the biological mechanism behind sex differentiation, emphasizing the importance of the X to autosome ratio in determining the sex of the organism.