Question

Which type of variation is inherited?
A. Somatic variation
B. Germinal variation
C. Both a and b
D. None of the above

Answer 1

Hint: Germinal cells carry genetic information forward from one generation to another. These cells include the gametes.

Complete answer:
Germinal variation is inherited in the progeny. Hence the correct answer in option b) germinal variation.

Additional information:
- Germinal cells are cells that have half the number of genes that are present in normal somatic or body cells i.e. they are haploid cells. They are also called as gametes and include male sperm and female ovum.
- These cells are responsible for carrying the genetic information in the progeny thus variations in such cells are inheritable to the progeny. They are hence called the germinal variation.
- These variations can be carried forward from the ancestor or due to mutations in the current generation.
- Germinal variations can also be results of recombination of alleles during sexual reproduction which makes them fluctuating variations and therefore are also called recombinations.
- There are two types of germinal variation: continuous and discontinuous variations based on the transition stages present during the variation.

Notes: Variations that take place in any other body cell other than the germinal cells i.e. in somatic cells are called somatic variations. These variations are non-heritable but are also controlled by genetic expression of the plats. These are independent of the environment.