Final Answer:
In Drosophila melanogaster, 2n = 8. A triploid fly would have 16 ; while a tetraploid fly would contain 24 chromosomes
Step-by-step explanation:
In Drosophila melanogaster, the haploid number of chromosomes (n) is half of the diploid number (2n). Given that 2n = 8, the haploid number (n) is 4. A triploid fly would have three times the haploid number, so 3n = 3 × 4 = 12 chromosomes.
On the other hand, a tetraploid fly would have four times the haploid number, so 4n = 4 × 4 = 16 chromosomes. Therefore, the correct pair is 12 chromosomes for a triploid fly and 16 chromosomes for a tetraploid fly, making the final answer 16 ; 24.
Understanding the relationship between ploidy levels and the number of chromosomes is fundamental in genetics. In this case, the triploid fly has an odd-numbered set of chromosomes, while the tetraploid fly has an even-numbered set, reflecting the multiplication of the haploid number by the respective ploidy level.
The calculations demonstrate how changes in ploidy level impact the total number of chromosomes. A triploid individual has an additional set of chromosomes compared to a diploid individual, leading to an increased chromosome count, while a tetraploid individual has double the chromosome count of a diploid. This knowledge is essential in studying the genetic variations and chromosomal configurations in different organisms, contributing to a deeper understanding of genetic diversity.