Generally, only female cats have the tortoiseshell phenotype for fur color. Which of the following statements explains this phenomenon?
A) A male inherits only one allele of the X-linked gene controlling hair color.
B) The Y chromosome has a gene blocking orange coloration.
C) Only males can have Barr bodies.
D) Multiple crossovers on the Y chromosome prevent orange pigment production.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tortoiseshell phenotype is created through X-inactivation, where one X chromosome is inactivated in each cell during embryonic development. Female cats have two X chromosomes, allowing for a mixture of black and orange pigment to be expressed in their fur. Male cats only have one X chromosome, so they can only inherit one allele and cannot display the tortoiseshell phenotype.

Generally, Only Female Cats Have the Tortoiseshell Phenotype for Fur