During fertilization, two germ cells combine, and each contributes one chromosome from each pair. This process restores the diploid number of chromosomes in the progeny, ensuring the stability of the species’ DNA and maintaining genetic integrity.
How does the combination of germ cells during fertilization restore the normal number of chromosomes in the progeny?
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The combination of germ cells during fertilization restores the normal number of chromosomes in the progeny through the fusion of haploid gametes. Each germ cell, either an egg or sperm, carries half the chromosome number (haploid). When the egg and sperm fuse during fertilization, their respective haploid sets merge, forming a diploid zygote. This zygote now possesses the complete and normal chromosome number for the species. Subsequent cell divisions of the zygote maintain this diploid chromosome count, ensuring that the offspring inherits the appropriate genetic information and chromosome number characteristic of its species.