Genetic variation question

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In summary, the conversation discusses the idea that skin color is controlled by multiple genes and can vary on a continuum. The question is posed of how the skin colors of two couples compare and which couple could have children with the widest range of skin colors. To find the answer, one would need to create a punnett square for each gene to determine the probability of dominance at each locus. It is also mentioned that the parents' genotypes would need to have a combination of dominant and recessive alleles in order to produce offspring with the genotypes AABBCC or aabbcc, which is not possible with the given genotypes of the couples.
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colton4286
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Recall that some traits, such as skin color, appear to be controlled by several genes. This creates a continuum of variation. If this polygenic explanation for the inheritance of human skin pigmentation is correct, how do the skin colors of the following 4 individuals compare? Which of the couples could have children with the widest range of skin colors? Couple 1: aaBbCC and aaBbCC; Couple 2: AaBbCc and AaBbCc

My thoughts: Create a punnett square for each gene to find the probability of dominance at each loci. Would the couple with the widest range of skin colors be the couple with the largest phenotypic dominance for all 5 genes?
 
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  • #2
What must the parents have to produce offspring of AABBCC? aabbcc?
 
  • #3
Each parent must have a copy of the dominant or recessive allele but that can't happen with the genotypes they have.
 

1. What is genetic variation?

Genetic variation refers to the differences in DNA sequences among individuals within a species. It is the result of random mutations and recombination during the process of reproduction.

2. Why is genetic variation important?

Genetic variation is important because it allows a species to adapt and survive in changing environments. It also increases the chances of a species' survival in the face of diseases and other challenges.

3. How is genetic variation measured?

Genetic variation is measured by analyzing the frequency of different alleles (versions of a gene) within a population. This can be done through techniques such as DNA sequencing and genotyping.

4. What factors contribute to genetic variation?

Genetic variation can be influenced by several factors, including mutations, natural selection, genetic drift, and gene flow. These factors can lead to changes in the frequency of alleles within a population.

5. Can genetic variation be inherited?

Yes, genetic variation can be inherited from parents to offspring. This is because genetic information is passed down through DNA, and the combination of genes from both parents creates genetic variation in their offspring.

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