Question

within a diploid animal species, what are potential sources of variation in shared, heritable traits? select all that apply.

• genetic engineering of somatic cells
• fertilization
• meiosis
• mitotic division of somatic cells

Explanation:

Analyze the question requirements

The question asks for potential sources of variation in shared, heritable traits within a diploid animal species. We must evaluate which options contribute to heritable genetic diversity.

Evaluate somatic cell modifications

Genetic engineering of somatic cells and mitotic division of somatic cells only affect non-reproductive body cells. These changes are not passed to offspring, so they do not cause variation in heritable traits.

Evaluate sexual reproduction processes

Using the Phenotypic Variation knowledge point, we look at how heritable differences arise. Meiosis creates unique gametes through crossing over and independent assortment. Fertilization combines these unique gametes randomly, creating new genetic combinations in offspring. Both are key sources of heritable variation.

Answer:

• Genetic engineering of somatic cells
• Fertilization (Correct answer)
• Meiosis (Correct answer)
• Mitotic division of somatic cells