Question

Which of the following phenotypes would most likely be the result of a; Hox; gene mutation?

a) Extra limbs
b) Altered flower color
c) Increased height
d) Enlarged leaves

Answer 1

A Hox gene mutation would most likely result in extra limbs or limbs growing in incorrect places, as exemplified by experiments with fruit flies where legs grew where antennae should be.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hox genes play a crucial role in the development of an organism's body plan, including the arrangement of body segments and the positioning of limbs. Therefore, a mutation in a Hox gene would most likely result in a phenotype such as extra limbs or limbs growing in incorrect places. For instance, scientists have caused mutations in a Hox gene of a fruit fly, which resulted in a leg growing out of its head where an antenna should have developed. This supports the idea that a Hox gene mutation can lead to abnormal placement or development of appendages relative to the organism's normal body plan.