In many cultures, having a male child (son) is preferable to having a female chi

Question

In many cultures, having a male child (son) is preferable to having a female child (daughter)--to the extent that there are reported cases of specific abortion of female children every year (though this practice is patently illegal). Interestingly, the 2000 census in the U.S.A. showed that there is a biological bias as well: 3 male children were born for every 2 female children born among certain subpopulations, despite the lack of specific cultural bias. Which gender has the reproductive advantage, and why? What do you expect to happen to the ratio of male and female births after the first-generation immigation? Explain your reasoning (from an evolutionary perspective)--including why it should be what you predict.

Explanation / Answer

Females have reproductive advantage over males. Because their cells carry XX chromosome while males have XY. Any defect in one X chromosome will lead to defective phenotype in male child while corresponding female will be a carrier.

            In the absence of biological bias, the sex ratio of males and females remain fairly consistent. Upon biological bias, the ratio of males and females will be abnormal. This will lead to disproportionate number of males.

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