Question

use the information and model to answer the question that follows.
the model represents reproduction in a hydra.
which of the following statements explains the genetic relationship shown in the model?
a the bud has only half of the genes from the parent.
b the genes in the bud are identical to the genes in the parent cell.
c the genes in the bud are not the same as the genes in the parent cell.
d the chromosomes of the bud are different, but the genes are the same.

Explanation:

Hydra reproduces asexually by budding. In asexual reproduction, the offspring (bud in this case) is genetically identical to the parent. This is because there is no fusion of gametes (as in sexual reproduction) and the new organism is formed from the mitotic division of cells in the parent. Mitosis results in daughter cells (and by extension, the bud) having the same genetic material (genes) as the parent cell.

• Option A is incorrect because in asexual reproduction (budding here), the bud has the same number of genes as the parent (not half. Half would be the case in sexual reproduction where gametes with haploid number of chromosomes are formed via meiosis).
• Option C is incorrect as the genes in the bud are the same as the parent (not different).
• Option D is incorrect because chromosomes carry genes. If genes are same, chromosomes (which are made of DNA and carry genetic information) cannot be different.

Answer:

B. The genes in the bud are identical to the genes in the parent cell.