Question

(a) If a particular gene is located on the Z chromosome of this lizard species, describe why a lizard with a ZW genotype has a greater probability of expressing the recessive phenotype for the trait than a lizard with the ZZ genotype does.

Answer 1

If there is no dominant allele for a trait present on a homologous chromosome to mask the recessive allele, the recessive phenotype will be expressed. In this case, the gene is located on the Z chromosome. In an individual with a ZW genotype (female) there is no homologous Z partner, meaning whatever allele is present on the solitary Z chromosome will be expressed.

Step-by-step explanation: