Homologous and non-homologous chromosomes differ primarily in their genetic composition. The former carry identical gene types in the same loci, while the latter contain different gene types.
Homologous and non-homologous chromosomes differ primarily in their genetic composition. The former carry identical gene types in the same loci, while the latter contain different gene types.
Chromosomes are structures that house the genetic information of a cell within the nucleus. Depending on their pairing pattern during meiosis (in metaphase 1), they are classified as either homologous or non-homologous chromosomes.
Homologous chromosomes are those that form pairs, while non-homologous chromosomes do not pair up. The number of chromosomes in homologous pairs depends on the ploidy of the organism.
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The following table outlines the main differences between homologous and non-homologous chromosomes.
Homologous Chromosomes | Non-Homologous Chromosomes |
These are chromosome pairs with identical gene sequences. | These chromosomes do not form pairs. |
The length of the arms and the position of the centromere are identical. | The length of the arms and the position of the centromere vary. |
The alleles are identical and located in the same loci. | The alleles are different. |
Homologous chromosomes pair during meiosis I. | Non-homologous chromosomes do not pair during meiosis I. |
They consist of paternal and maternal chromosomes of the same pair. | They belong to different homologous pairs. |
During recombination, parts of the chromosomes can be exchanged. | In translocation, parts of the chromosomes can be exchanged. |
For example, in humans, the 23rd pair of chromosomes is homologous. | For instance, in males, the X and Y chromosomes are non-homologous. |
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