Final answer:
The genetic disease with fragile, sickle-shaped erythrocytes is sickle cell anemia, caused by mutations leading to abnormal hemoglobin S production.
Step-by-step explanation:
The genetic disease characterized by fragile, abnormally shaped erythrocytes and mutations in ankyrin or spectrin is sickle cell anemia. This condition involves a mutation in one of the hemoglobin genes, causing erythrocytes to produce an abnormal type of hemoglobin, hemoglobin S. This abnormal hemoglobin changes the shape of the red blood cells to a characteristic sickle or crescent shape.
These sickle-shaped cells are prone to getting stuck in narrow blood vessels, obstructing blood flow, and leading to a variety of health issues such as pain, swelling, and organ damage. Sickle cell anemia is particularly prevalent among individuals of African descent and is known to confer a protective advantage against malaria in heterozygous carriers.