Suppose a Geneticist Sequences a Specific Gene Region in Two

question 45

Short Answer

Suppose a geneticist sequences a specific gene region in two species, A and B, previously known to be closely related. He specifically wants to see which of the two species is closer to an ancestral species. The sequence comparison showed that this region in species B has an extra intron, unlike other near relatives, but that otherwise A and B are virtually the same for this region. Based on this data alone, he could reason that which species was more likely ancestral?

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Definitions:

Archetypes

Universal, inherited models of people, behaviors, or personalities that play a role in influencing human behavior.

Genes And Environment

The interplay between genetic predispositions and environmental factors that influence the development and behavior of individuals.

Phenotypes

The collection of visible attributes or properties in an organism that arise from the combination of its genetic makeup and environmental influences.

Genotypes

The genetic makeup of an organism, determining specific traits or characteristics through the combinations of alleles inherited from parents.