How is extranuclear inheritance achieved?

Prepare for the NYSTCE 160 Biology Exam with comprehensive study materials. Dive into flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations to boost your understanding and readiness for test day!

Extranuclear inheritance refers to the transmission of genetic material that occurs outside of the nucleus, primarily involving organelles such as mitochondria and chloroplasts. In many organisms, particularly animals, the mitochondria are inherited almost exclusively from the mother through the egg cell. This is because during fertilization, the sperm contributes very little to the cytoplasm of the zygote, which contains the mitochondria that are responsible for producing energy within cells.

The genetic material within these organelles is separate from the nuclear DNA and is inherited in a manner that reflects maternal lineage. Thus, traits that are determined by genes located in mitochondrial DNA exhibit maternal inheritance patterns. This understanding is critical when studying inheritance patterns in genetics and biology, as it emphasizes the importance of maternal contributions to certain characteristics in offspring.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy