Let\'s assume/pretend that webbed toes are a recessive trait (we are assuming th
ID: 3496367 • Letter: L
Question
Let's assume/pretend that webbed toes are a recessive trait (we are assuming this because it's not fun to pretend your niece was born with an actual genetic disease). You do not have webbed toes and your fraternal twin brother does not have webbed toes. It is a surprise when your new niece is born to your brother and his wife with two webbed toes. 1. What is your brother's genotype and phenotype? 2. What is your sister-in-law's genotype and phenotype? What is your niece's phenotype and genotype? Do you have enough information to know your genotype? Speculate on the possibilities. What are the chances that your children will be born with 3. 4. webbed-toes? How do you know? Please answer questions in order. Thank you.Explanation / Answer
1. The brother's genotype is essentially the DNA material contained in his genes which is responsible for this particular trait, i.e. having webbed foot in this case. This is what makes an individual have a genetic predisposition as wel call it, for any particular trait. However, phenotype on the other hand is the actual physical expression of that trait in a full-fledged manner. For instance, difference in genes causes different genotypes, however having similar physical traits means that they share same phenotype for that particular trait manifesting in them. The brother may have a recessive genotype for the same trait, though not the phenotype.
2. The genotype of the sister in law may or may not contain the genotype as well. If she has the same physical manifestation then she contains the phenotype as well. The niece indeed has both the genotype and phenotype for webbed foot now.
3. Enough information can never be established with regard to genotype since there may be so many traits that are indeed recessive in nature and may have been a part of genetic composition, although they may not have manifested in the form of phenotype.
4. In case a recessive gene trait interacts with another complex genetic material that leads to the genotype for this particular trait, then this may occur in future. However, since it has not been part of the family history so far, it seems less likely.
Related Questions
Navigate
Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.