Rucete ✏ Campbell Biology In a Nutshell
Unit 3 GENETICS — Concept 13.1 Offspring Acquire Genes from Parents by Inheriting Chromosomes
Heredity is the transmission of traits from parents to offspring through units called genes, which are passed on as part of chromosomes. This process provides both genetic continuity and variation.
Inheritance of Genes
- Genes are hereditary units made of DNA
- Passed from parents to offspring via gametes (sperm and egg)
- Program the development of inherited traits by encoding proteins
- Located on chromosomes at specific loci
Asexual vs. Sexual Reproduction
- Asexual reproduction
- One parent produces genetically identical offspring (clones)
- Involves mitosis only
- Little genetic variation except through mutation
- Sexual reproduction
- Two parents combine genes through gamete fusion
- Offspring differ genetically from parents and siblings
- Generates heritable variation
Genetic Variation
- Sexual reproduction introduces genetic diversity
- Variation arises from different combinations of parental genes
- Critical for adaptation and evolution
In a Nutshell
Genes are inherited on chromosomes passed from parents to offspring. Asexual reproduction produces clones, while sexual reproduction shuffles genes, creating genetic diversity.