For the mechanism to work, each germ cell must have only one gene set to ensure that, during sexual reproduction, each parent contributes one set of genes to the progeny. This segregation and combination of gene sets from both parents are fundamental to the principles of Mendelian inheritance.
Why is it necessary for each germ cell to have only one gene set in the context of this mechanism?
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It is necessary for each germ cell to have only one gene set to maintain the diploid state during fertilization. When two haploid gametes fuse, the resulting zygote attains the normal, diploid number of chromosomes for the species. This ensures the restoration of the complete set of genetic information, including both homologous chromosomes, allowing for genetic diversity and stability in the offspring. If germ cells had more than one gene set, it would disrupt the balance of genetic material during fertilization, leading to abnormal chromosome numbers in the zygote and potentially compromising the viability and functionality of the resulting individual.