Question

Explain the sex determination mechanism in humans. How is it different in birds

Answer 1

Sex determination in humans:
Human beings exhibit male heterogamy. In humans, males (XY) produce two different types of gametes, X and Y. The human female (XX) produces only one type of gametes containing X chromosomes. The sex of the baby is determined by the type of male gamete that fuses with the female gamete. If the fertilizing sperm contains X chromosome, then the baby produced will be a girl and if the fertilizing sperm contains Y chromosome, then the baby produced will be a boy. Hence, it is a matter of chance that determines the sex of a baby. There is an equal probability of the fertilizing sperm being an X or Y chromosome. Thus, it is the genetic make up of the sperm that determines the sex of the baby.
​
Sex Determination in birds:
The sex chromosomes in birds is determined as Z and W. The male is homomorphic (ZZ) and the female is heteromorphic (ZW). W chromosome carries female sex determining genes and duplication of Z chromosome indicates male sex. So, in case of chicks, the sex is determined by teh egg and not by the sperms.