Final answer:
The gene on the mammalian Y chromosome that is essential for the development of male characteristics is called the SRY (sex-determining region Y) gene. The correct option is 2) Y-linked
Step-by-step explanation:
The gene on the mammalian Y chromosome that is essential for the development of male characteristics is called the SRY (sex-determining region Y) gene.
The Y chromosome contains only a few genes, and the SRY gene is one of them. This gene triggers the embryo to develop into a male, and its presence determines the male sex.
The SRY gene is an example of a Y-linked gene, as it is found exclusively on the Y chromosome and is not present on the X chromosome. The correct option is 2) Y-linked