Or would a complete change in chromosome number be fatal for humans? Im not talking about 47 chromosome such as in Down's syndrome. But like a 94 chromosome human? Is it possible?
2007-03-14 11:35:49 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
A species is defined as a series of living organisms with similar characteristics that can reproduce naturally.
If a mutation such as this were to occur, it would not necessarily mean the death of that particular specimen, but it would be a grim future. If a "human" with 96 chromosomes tried to reproduce with a human of 46 chromosomes, it would simply not happen. Gametes for one would have 48 chromosomes, while the other would have 23. These would not be able to bond correctly, and the new species would eventually die out. Because they could no longer reproduce naturally, they would not be of the same species.
If however, two mutations occured within the same time period, than hypothetically, they could reproduce, and continue their species.
2007-03-14 15:48:50 · answer #1 · answered by redsox579 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A horses and donkeys are no longer a similar species. They variety by employing 2 chromosomes (say fifty two and fifty 4 yet i comprehend its 2) A mule is the pass between the two and has fifty 3. Mules are sterile and can't reproduce yet its be certain are close sufficient genetically for the tournament to happen. Tigers and Lions can do this as nicely. form of chromosomes would not unavoidably mans length. flowers are infamous for having 1000's of chromosomes, extra chromosomes would not unavoidably recommend extra genes. not sure what the Max # of chrmosomes is.
2016-09-30 22:32:00 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
One of the most common genetic anomaly (not abnormality) is fusion of chromosomes 13 and 14. In theory, since it exists in one person in 1300, enough people in group could have this trait and be normal and healthy with 44 chromosomes. Their offspring, when mating with the general population, would have fertility issues that might establish a new species.
2007-03-14 11:45:06 · answer #3 · answered by novangelis 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most random mutations are fatal, or a huge handicap. Some, however, are actually improvements - that's how evolution happens - a random mutation that turns out to be an advantage and therefore leads to the organism reproducing successfully, passing on the mutation to its offspring.
So, in most cases, it'd be deadly, but there's a small chance that it could happen and be a good thing.
2007-03-14 11:45:19 · answer #4 · answered by Ms. S 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋