Explaining the Phenotypic Pattern of Llamas

How can we explain the pattern of phenotypes observed in the F2 generation of Llamas resulting from a cross between true-breeding shaggy brown and short cream Llama strains?

Proposed Model:

Parental Genotypes: The two pure-breeding parent strains are the shaggy brown llamas (SSBB) and short cream llamas (ssbb), both being homozygous for their respective genes.

Explanation:

When these two pure-breeding Llama strains are crossed, the F1 generation inherits one allele from each parent. This results in the F1 offspring having heterozygous genotypes for coat texture and color (SsBb).

F2 Generation:

A cross between two heterozygous individuals (SsBb x SsBb) can produce nine different genotypes in the F2 generation, leading to a specific phenotypic pattern.

Observed Phenotypes:

Among the F2 progeny, there are three types of shaggy llamas (SSBB, SsBB, SsBb) and three types of cream-colored llamas (ssbb, ssBb, Ssbb), with no short-haired brown or shaggy cream-colored llamas observed.

← How to stay positive in challenging situations Improving soil structure for healthy plant growth →