Final answer:
To test F1 progeny genotypes, conduct a test cross with a homozygous recessive organism and use a Punnett square analysis to predict F2 generation outcomes, helping distinguish homozygous dominants from heterozygotes.
Step-by-step explanation:
To test the genotype of F1 progeny in Mendel's experiments, one can use the following two methods:
Test Cross: Perform a cross between an organism with the dominant phenotype and one that is homozygous recessive for the same characteristic. If all F1 offspring display the dominant trait, the organism is a homozygote. If there is a 1:1 ratio of dominant to recessive phenotypes, the organism is a heterozygote.
Punnett Square Analysis: Use a Punnett square to predict the possible genotypes of the F1 offspring by considering all possible allelic combinations of the F1 parents. This allows you to determine the genotypic and phenotypic ratios of the resulting F2 generation.
These techniques can help differentiate homozygous dominant individuals from heterozygous ones and are fundamental in understanding Mendelian genetics.