Inheritance

Linked genes

Genes that are located on the same chromosome are referred to as linked genes. These genes tend to be inherited together as a unit, as you can see in the animation on the right. In this case, the SsWwr individual makes only Sw and sW gametes because these alleles are present together on the parental chromosomes (shown in blue and brown) and are not separated during gamete formation.

When two genes are inherited together attached to the same chromosome, it is known as complete linkage. Complete linkage creates gametes, that have chromosomes that are copies of the parent.

What would happen if all genes demonstrated complete linkage during gamete formatin?
How would the influence genetic variation?

What processes have evolved to avoid direct linkage?
Solution