How to Identify Unknown Genotypes Using a Test Cross
Learn the method to identify unknown genotypes with a test cross and uncover the basics of genetics.
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To identify an unknown genotype using a test cross, cross the organism with a homozygous recessive individual. If any offspring exhibit the recessive phenotype, then the unknown genotype must be heterozygous. If all offspring show the dominant phenotype, the unknown organism is homozygous dominant.
FAQs & Answers
- What is a test cross in genetics? A test cross is a breeding experiment used to determine the genotype of an individual by crossing it with a homozygous recessive individual.
- How can you tell if an organism is homozygous or heterozygous? By performing a test cross, you can identify if an organism is homozygous dominant or heterozygous based on the phenotypes of its offspring.
- What does heterozygous mean? Heterozygous refers to having two different alleles for a specific gene, one dominant and one recessive.
- Why is knowing the genotype important? Understanding an organism's genotype helps predict traits and behaviors, useful in fields like agriculture, breeding, and medicine.