The outcome of a genetic cross involving eye color and body type is predicted to have a 25%: 25%: 25%: 25% ratio. When bred, the organisms produced offspring with the following ratio 45%: 45%: 3%: 3%. These results are most likely due to
A) the two genes in question being linked on the same chromosome.
B) a spontaneous mutation within the offspring.
C) pure chance.
D) an inaccurate prediction for the 25%: 25%: 25%: 25% ratio.
E) the two genes being on separate chromosomes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The deviation from the expected 25%:25%:25%:25% ratio to a 45%:45%:3%:3% ratio suggests that the two genes are linked on the same chromosome, leading to a non-Mendelian inheritance pattern where certain combinations of traits are inherited together more frequently than would be expected if the genes were assorting independently.

The Outcome of a Genetic Cross Involving Eye Color and Body