[Campbell Biology P.435] According to the text, what defines a 'maternal effect gene'? | Practice Question
According to the text, what defines a 'maternal effect gene'?
A: A gene that, when mutant in the mother, results in a mutant phenotype in the offspring, regardless of the offspring's own genotype.
B: A gene that only affects the mother's reproductive organs and has no effect on the offspring.
C: A gene whose mutant phenotype is only observed when both the mother and offspring carry the mutation.
D: A gene that causes embryonic lethality only when expressed in the offspring's germline.
Explanation
The text states: 'A gene classified as a maternal effect gene is one that, when mutant in the mother, results in a mutant phenotype in the offspring, regardless of the offspring's own genotype.'