Genetic Mutations and Variations

These flashcards cover key terms related to genetic mutations, variations, and their implications in biology.

Paternal Chromosome

The chromosome inherited from the father.

Maternal Chromosome

The chromosome inherited from the mother.

Meiosis

The process of cell division that produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes.

Point Mutation

A mutation that changes a single base pair in DNA.

Insertion Mutation

A type of mutation where extra base pairs are added into the DNA sequence.

Deletion Mutation

A mutation that removes base pairs from the DNA sequence.

Gene Duplication

A mutation that produces extra copies of a gene.

Crossing Over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during meiosis.

Melanism

The occurrence of a high level of pigmentation in the skin, hair, or feathers.

Cis-acting Elements

Regulatory regions of DNA that affect nearby genes.

Trans-acting Factors

Regulatory proteins that can affect genes located far away from where they are produced.

Genome Duplication

The process where the entire genetic material of an organism is duplicated.

Chromosome Fusion

The joining together of two chromosomes to form a single chromosome.

Natural Selection

The process where organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Phylogeny

The evolutionary history and the relationships among a group of organisms.

Neoteny

The retention of juvenile features in the adult.

Haploid

A cell that contains one complete set of chromosomes.

Diploid

A cell that contains two complete sets of chromosomes.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an individual or organism.

Phenotype

The observable characteristics or traits of an organism.

Quantitative Traits

Measurable traits that vary continuously, often influenced by multiple genes.