For each offspring genotype in the Punnett square you just completed, determine the phenotype. In other words, what is the predicted fur color and eye color of the offspring? Using your Punnett square from the last step, fill in the predicted fraction for each phenotype in the data table below.
| | Black Fur and Black Eyes | Black Fur and Red Eyes | White Fur and Black Eyes | White Fur and Red Eyes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Predicted Fraction | 16 | \checkmark / 16 | 16 | 16 | 16 |
Answer (1)
Assume the following counts for each phenotype: Black Fur/Black Eyes: 9, Black Fur/Red Eyes: 3, White Fur/Black Eyes: 3, White Fur/Red Eyes: 1.
Calculate the predicted fraction for each phenotype.
Black Fur and Black Eyes: 16 9
Black Fur and Red Eyes: 16 3
White Fur and Black Eyes: 16 3
White Fur and Red Eyes: 16 1
Fill in the data table with the calculated fractions: 16 9 , 16 3 , 16 3 , 16 1
Explanation
Analyze the problem and assume Punnett square outcome Let's analyze the problem. We need to determine the fraction of offspring with each phenotype based on a Punnett square from the previous step. Since the Punnett square is not provided, I will assume a possible outcome to illustrate the solution. Let's assume the following counts for each phenotype:
Black Fur and Black Eyes: 9
Black Fur and Red Eyes: 3
White Fur and Black Eyes: 3
White Fur and Red Eyes: 1
Calculate the predicted fractions Now, we'll calculate the predicted fraction for each phenotype, keeping in mind that the denominator should be 16.
Black Fur and Black Eyes: 16 9
Black Fur and Red Eyes: 16 3
White Fur and Black Eyes: 16 3
White Fur and Red Eyes: 16 1
Fill in the data table Finally, we fill in the data table with the calculated fractions.
Examples
Understanding phenotype probabilities is crucial in breeding programs. For example, a breeder might want to predict the likelihood of certain traits appearing in a litter of puppies, such as coat color or eye color. By using Punnett squares and probability calculations, breeders can make informed decisions about which animals to breed to increase the chances of desired traits appearing in their offspring. This is also applicable in agriculture, where farmers predict the traits of their crops.
