Supplementary and complementary genes are two concepts related to gene interactions and inheritance patterns.
1. Supplementary Genes:
Supplementary genes refer to a pair of genes that are located on different chromosomes and work together to produce a specific trait. Each gene in the pair independently contributes to the expression of the trait, and the presence of both genes is required for the full expression of the trait. When either one or both of the genes are absent, the trait will not be fully expressed.
An example of supplementary genes can be seen in the flower color of sweet peas. Let's say there are two genes involved: Gene A and Gene B. Gene A controls the production of pigment for blue flowers, and Gene B controls the production of pigment for red flowers. Only when both Gene A and Gene B are present in the plant, the flowers will show a full expression of color, resulting in purple flowers. If either Gene A or Gene B is absent, the flowers will be either blue or red, respectively.
2. Complementary Genes:
Complementary genes refer to a pair of genes that are located on the same chromosome and work together to produce a specific trait. However, unlike supplementary genes, the presence of both genes is not necessary for the trait to be expressed. Each gene in the pair independently contributes to the expression of the trait, but if both genes are present, they complement each other, resulting in an enhanced or more pronounced expression of the trait.
An example of complementary genes can be seen in the coat color of some animals, such as Labrador Retrievers. Let's say there are two genes involved: Gene C and Gene D. Gene C controls the production of pigment for black coat color, and Gene D controls the production of pigment for brown coat color. If an individual carries two copies of Gene C, it will have a black coat. If an individual carries two copies of Gene D, it will have a brown coat. However, if the individual carries one copy of each gene (Gene C and Gene D), the genes complement each other, resulting in a unique coat color known as "chocolate," which is a more pronounced expression compared to having just one gene.
In summary, supplementary genes require the presence of both genes for full expression of the trait, while complementary genes enhance or modify the expression of the trait when both genes are present.
♥️
