Question

A mutation occurs in the brain cells of an elephant in the African savannah. Which statement concerning the spread of this mutation through the elephant population is correct?

A. It will spread because it is beneficial
B. It will not spread because it is a recessive gene
C. It will spread because it is a dominant gene
D. It will not spread because it is not in a gamete

Answer 1

D

Step-by-step explanation:

A somatic mutation cannot be passed down generations. The mutation has to be in the gamete (egg or sperm) to be inherited by the offspring. This can occur when the pre-gametic cells incur a mutation during development into a gamete.