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Sexual reproduction

A type of reproduction that involves the fusion of gametes from two parents, resulting in genetic variation in the population.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

Diploid

Having two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.

Haploid

Having one set of chromosomes.

Alternation of generations

A life cycle in which organisms alternate between a haploid and diploid state.

Asexual reproduction

Reproduction without the involvement of gametes, resulting in offspring that are genetically identical to the parent.

Binary fission

A form of asexual reproduction in which a single organism divides into two identical offspring.

Germ-line cells

Cells that give rise to gametes.

Gamete

A specialized reproductive cell (sperm or egg) that fuses with another gamete during sexual reproduction.

Zygote

The cell formed by the fusion of two gametes, which develops into a new organism.

Somatic cells

Non-reproductive cells in an organism.

Mitosis

A type of cell division that produces two identical daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

DNA replication

The process of copying DNA to produce two identical DNA molecules.

Homologous chromosomes

Pair of chromosomes that have the same genes at the same loci but may have different alleles.

Crossing-over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Mendelian genetics

The study of inheritance patterns based on the principles established by Gregor Mendel.

Dominant trait

A trait that is expressed when present in the genotype.

Recessive trait

A trait that is only expressed when two copies are present in the genotype.

Homozygous

Having two identical alleles for a particular gene.

Heterozygous

Having two different alleles for a particular gene.

Hybrid vigor

The increased fitness or performance of offspring resulting from the crossing of genetically different parents.

Law of segregation

The principle that alleles of a gene separate during gamete formation.

Law of independent assortment

The principle that alleles of different genes segregate independently of each other during gamete formation.

Genetic mapping

Determining the relative positions of genes on a chromosome.

Recombination frequencies

The likelihood of genetic recombination occurring between two genes.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)

Variations in a single nucleotide within a DNA sequence.

Gene mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence of a gene.

Frameshift mutations

Mutations that occur when nucleotides are inserted or deleted, causing a shift in the reading frame of the gene.

Genetic screens

Experimental methods used to identify genes involved in specific biological processes or traits.

Haplotype blocks

Linked blocks of genetic variants on a chromosome.

Selective advantage

The increased fitness or survival advantage conferred by a particular genetic variant.

Nature vs nurture

The debate about the relative influence of genetics (nature) and environment (nurture) on an individual's traits or behavior.