Question

Briefly mention the contribution of T.H. Morgan in genetics.

Answer 1

T.H. Morgan proved the phenomenon of linked genes. These are the genes that are linked and hence not inherited together. These genes do not follow the law of independent assortment. To prove this he conducted an experiment on Drosophila from which he drew the following conclusions-

1) The gene responsible for eye color is located on X chromosome.

2) The alleles responsible for eye color are present on X chromosome.

3) There are two X chromosomes in females. Both X chromosomes carry an allele of the trait.

4) Females can be homozygous or heterozygous for the alleles.