Answer: One gene masks or modifies the expression of another gene.
- A Two alleles of the exact same gene happen to interact
- B One gene masks or modifies the expression of another gene
- C All genes in the genome act largely independently of each other
- D Genes located on the same chromosome generally do not interact
Correct answer: B. One gene masks or modifies the expression of another gene
Explanation: Epistasis: one gene (epistatic) suppresses or modifies the phenotype of another gene (hypostatic). Causes modified ratios (e.g., 9:3:4, 9:7, 12:3:1 instead of 9:3:3:1).
Punnett square for a monohybrid cross between two heterozygous (Tt) parents, showing the 3:1 phenotypic ratio predicted by Mendel's Law of Segregation.
Concept context
Mendel's laws, inheritance patterns, DNA structure, and molecular biology. Core of NEET biology.
Read the full Principles of Inheritance and Variation notes →