[Campbell Biology P.479] According to Figure 20.18 and the accompanying text, CC, the first ... | Practice Question

According to Figure 20.18 and the accompanying text, CC, the first cloned cat, was not identical to her genetic donor, Rainbow. Which of the following reasons best explains this observed difference?

  • A: CC received genetic material from two different parents, making her a hybrid.
  • B: Rainbow's nucleus was incomplete, leading to a partial clone.
  • C: Random X chromosome inactivation and environmental factors played a significant role in determining CC's traits, despite identical DNA.
  • D: The cloning process always introduces beneficial mutations that enhance the clone's personality and appearance.

Explanation

The passage explicitly states that CC's color and pattern differed from Rainbow's 'because of random X chromosome inactivation,' and that 'environmental influences and random phenomena play a significant role during development.' This explains why even genetically identical individuals are not always identical phenotypically.