In maize,overall kernel color is controlled by both the endosperm and the aleurone colors.The Y allele produces a yellow endosperm while the homozygous recessive (y/y)state produces a white endosperm.Endosperm color is masked by the presence of a colored aleurone.The R and Pr genes control aleurone color.The combination of Pr and R alleles lead to a purple aleurone.The combination of pr and R alleles lead to a red aleurone.A homozygous recessive (r/r)produces a colorless aleurone,allowing the endosperm color to be expressed.Which allele is epistatic?
A) Y
B) R
C)Pr
D) Y and R
E) R and Pr

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The R allele is epistatic, as it controls the expression of both the Pr and pr alleles in determining aleurone color. The presence of the R allele can lead to purple or red aleurone, while its absence leads to a colorless aleurone, allowing the endosperm color to show through. The Y allele controls endosperm color, but it is not epistatic as it does not affect the expression of other genes controlling kernel color.

In Maize,overall Kernel Color Is Controlled by Both the Endosperm