If progeny inherited a single whole gene set from each parent, the characteristics, such as ‘R’ and ‘y’, would be linked to each other and could not be independently inherited. This linkage would prevent the segregation and recombination of different traits, as observed in Mendelian experiments.
Why would the experiment explained in Figure not work if progeny inherited a single whole gene set from each parent?
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If progeny were to inherit a single whole gene set from each parent, the experiment depicted in the figure would fail to capture the essence of sexual reproduction. The fundamental advantage of sexual reproduction lies in the generation of genetically diverse offspring through the combination and shuffling of genetic material from both parents. This diversity provides a reservoir of potential traits, enhancing a population’s adaptability and evolutionary success. If each progeny received an entire gene set from a single parent, it would mimic a form of asexual reproduction, leading to genetically uniform offspring. Such uniformity hampers adaptability and limits the evolutionary potential of a population, as it lacks the genetic variation necessary for survival in changing environments.