Solutions For An Introduction to Genetic Analysis Chapter 3 Problem 33P

The following cross of variegated ? x green ? would yield the following progeny:

• Green leaves

• White leaves

• Variegated leaves

The reciprocal cross of variegated ? x green ? would give a progeny, which do not show white or variegated leaves. Only green leaves are seen.

The basis for this inheritance is that the chloroplasts are inherited from the mother. In the first cross, since the mother is variegated she can produce 3 types of eggs:

• Green

• White

• Variegated

Hence, for the first cross the progeny can have any of the three leaf colors. In the second cross, as the mother has green leaves all her progeny also produce green leaves.