Question

Part A

A geneticist identifies cell types in four sexually reproducing organisms that display mutations. The
results are shown in the table. A (+) symbol means a mutation was detected. A (-) symbol means no
mutations were detected.
A
L and M
B
L and O
CN and M
DN and O
Organism
Tested
L
M
N
O
Which organisms will pass the mutations to their offspring?
Cells Displaying Mutations
Skin
Stomach
Gamete
*

Answer 1

Only mutations in the germ cells or gametes can be passed on to offspring.

Gametes are specialized reproductive cells that carry half the genetic information of an individual. In animals, gametes are produced by meiosis and fuse during fertilization to form a zygote, which develops into a new individual. In humans, male gametes are called spermatozoa or sperm cells, while female gametes are called ova or egg cells.

Organism A: Mutations in cells L and M

Organism B: Mutations in cells L and O

Organism C: Mutations in cells N and M

Organism D: Mutations in cells N and O

Only mutations in the germ cells or gametes can be passed on to offspring.