Lab 6: Cat Genetics and Pedigree Analysis

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts from the lecture on cat genetics and pedigree analysis.

Mendelian genetics

Principles of heredity established by Gregor Mendel based on his experiments with pea plants.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an organism, represented by alleles.

Phenotype

The observable traits or characteristics of an organism.

Allele

Different forms of a gene that can exist for a particular trait.

Homozygous

An organism with two identical alleles for a specific trait (e.g., AA or aa).

Heterozygous

An organism with two different alleles for a specific trait (e.g., Aa).

Punnett square

A diagram used to predict the genotypes of offspring from genetic crosses.

Dominant trait

A trait that is expressed in the phenotype even when only one allele is present.

Recessive trait

A trait that is expressed in the phenotype only when two copies of the allele are present.

Autosomal traits

Traits that are not determined by sex chromosomes and are carried on autosomes.

X-linked trait

A trait determined by genes located on the X chromosome.

Widow's peak

A hairline that dips down the middle of the forehead; a dominant trait.

Tongue rolling

The ability to roll the tongue; a dominant trait.

Cleft chin

A dimple in the chin; a dominant trait.

Agouti

A gene that affects the pigmentation of hair, creating striping patterns (dominant).

Calico cat

A cat with a coat of more than one color, typically orange and black patches.

Pedigree analysis

A diagram that shows the occurrence of a genetic trait across generations.

X-inactivation

The process where one of the two X chromosomes in female mammals is inactivated.