Question

What are homogametes and heterogametes?

Answer 1

Hint: An organism's gametes are its reproductive or sex cells. They are classified as either homogametes or heterogametes. Homogametes are gametes that are similar to one another. Shape and size distinguish heterogametes from one another.

Complete step-by-step answer:

Sexually reproducing organisms reproduce through haploid gamete fusion or fertilisation. Diploid individuals are formed as a result. Only half of the genetic information is carried by gametes, also known as sex cells or reproductive cells. They are created through meiosis or reductional division. The genetic makeup of gametes differs between male and female gametes. The gametes are further classified into two types based on their shape, size, structure, and morphology:

1. Homogametes- These gametes resemble one another in appearance. They are also known as Isogametes. They share morphology and behavior. Because the two gametes are the same size and dimension, they cannot be distinguished. There is no such naming of male and female gametes in this species. Rhizopus and Ulothrix are two common examples.

2. Heterogametes- These gametes have distinct appearances. They are also known as Anisogametes. They differ in morphology and behaviour. Because the two gametes differ in shape and size, they are easily distinguished. The larger gamete is known as the Macrogamete, while the smaller gamete is known as the Microgamete. Female gametes are generally larger and non-motile. Male gametes are also smaller and more mobile. In animals, the female gamete is referred to as the ova or egg, and the male gamete is referred to as the sperm. The male gamete in plants is known as the pollen grain, and the female gamete is known as the ovule. Gymnosperms and angiosperms are common examples.

Note: Human females are also known as Homogametic because they share the same pair of XX chromosomes. Male humans are heterogamous because they have a different pair of XY chromosomes. Female birds are heterogametic (ZW), while males are homogametic (ZZ).