In comparing the genomes of humans and those of other higher primates, it is seen that humans have a large metacentric pair we call chromosome 2 among our 46 chromosomes, whereas the other primates of this group have 48 chromosomes and any pair like the human chromosome 2 pair is not present; instead, the primate groups each have two pairs of midsize acrocentric chromosomes. What is the most likely explanation?
A) The ancestral organism had 48 chromosomes and at some point a centric fusion event occurred and provided some selective advantage.
B) The ancestral organism had 46 chromosomes, but primates evolved when one of the pairs broke in half.
C) At some point in evolution, human ancestors and primate ancestors were able to mate and produce fertile offspring, making a new species.
D) Chromosome breakage results in additional centromeres being made in order for meiosis to proceed successfully.
E) Transposable elements transferred significantly large segments of the chromosomes to new locations.
How the study of genomes and proteomes can provide us with connections to different biological level
Roots of the keystone species hypothesis: does a higher proportion of predators in diverse communiti
Humans are one of the four extant hominid genera.
The thorax of apes, including humans, is broad but shallow in contrast to the narrower, deeper chest
Selected Drugs Suspected of Causing Cancer in Humans
Comparing Signs and Symptoms of Cold, Allergy, and the Flu