Are an Individual's Gametes Genetically Identical?

  • Thread starter LoneDragon
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In summary, gametes are reproductive cells that contain half of the genetic information needed to create a new individual. They are produced through a process called meiosis and have the purpose of creating genetic diversity in offspring. External factors can influence gamete production, and it can also be manipulated for reproductive purposes through assisted reproductive technologies.
  • #1
LoneDragon
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[SOLVED] An individual's Gamete production.

From anyone individual member, male or female, of a multicellular higher species using sexual reproduction, like humans or plants, for that one, are all the gametes genetically identical? That is, does an individual's gametes always and only contain a high fidelity half copy of the individual's genetic material with no signifigant chomosomal alterations, short of errors and accidental mutations? Or, do gametes have some form of program controlled genetic variability in some higher life forms, like humans or plants?
 
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  • #2
Sounds like homework. Lets' get you going on how to figure it out for yourself. What happens to parts of chromosome pairs during meiosis?
 
  • #3
jim mcnamara said:
Sounds like homework. Lets' get you going on how to figure it out for yourself. What happens to parts of chromosome pairs during meiosis?

Damn, yer right, reviewed the bio book. Crossover occurs in meiosis, so alterations are part of the program, here. I must be forgetting basic materials, or listening to misinformation. I thought crossover only occurred in fertilization. What was I thinking! lol
 
Last edited:

Related to Are an Individual's Gametes Genetically Identical?

1. What is a gamete?

A gamete is a reproductive cell that contains half of the genetic information needed to create a new individual. In humans, gametes are sperm cells in males and egg cells in females.

2. How are gametes produced?

Gametes are produced through a process called meiosis. This is a type of cell division that results in four cells, each with half the number of chromosomes as the original cell. In humans, meiosis occurs in the testes and ovaries.

3. What is the purpose of gamete production?

The purpose of gamete production is to create genetically diverse cells that can combine with another gamete during fertilization and form a new individual. This process ensures genetic variation in offspring and is essential for evolution.

4. Can gamete production be influenced by external factors?

Yes, gamete production can be influenced by external factors such as environmental conditions, diet, and lifestyle choices. These factors can affect the quality and quantity of gametes produced, which may impact fertility and the health of offspring.

5. Can gamete production be manipulated for reproductive purposes?

Yes, gamete production can be manipulated for reproductive purposes through assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization and sperm or egg donation. These methods can help individuals or couples who are struggling with infertility to conceive a child.

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