Question

Suppose a diploid slime mold is completely heterozygous at all 12 of its chromosomes (2n = 12). how many different combinations of gametes can be produced by this slime mold, assuming no homologous recombination between chromosomes

Answer 1

64 different combination of gametes can be produced.

Step-by-step explanation:

A slime mold is diploid (2n) has 6 pairs (12) chromosomes. Let’s assume 6 pairs of chromosomes in heterozygous condition, are Aa, Bb, Cc, Dd, Ee, and Ff. The number of different combinations of gametes can be produced in an organism is determined by a formula:

Different types of gametes = 2ⁿ, where n is the number of heterozygous chromosomes.

Therefore, 2ⁿ = 2⁶ = 64.

Thus, 64 different combinations of gametes can be produced.

Answer 2

If the cell contains 12 chromosomes divided into 6 pairs, during meiosis, gametes are given 6 chromosomes, one from each pair. You would then be able to create combinations that include one of each pair of chromosomes or basically 2 power 6= 2x2x2x2x2x2= 64 combinations.