How are autosomal traits different from sex-linked traits?

• A. Autosomal traits are inherited only from the mother, while sex-linked traits are inherited only from the father.
• B. Autosomal traits are inherited through non-sex chromosomes, while sex-linked traits are inherited through sex chromosomes.
• C. Autosomal traits are always dominant, while sex-linked traits are always recessive.
• D. Autosomal traits are only expressed in males, while sex-linked traits are expressed in both sexes.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic definitions: Autosomal traits are associated with genes located on autosomes, which are the non-sex chromosomes. Humans have 22 pairs of autosomes. Sex-linked traits are associated with genes located on the sex chromosomes, which are the X and Y chromosomes.
2. Recognize the inheritance patterns: Autosomal traits can be inherited from either parent and affect both males and females equally because they are not linked to the sex chromosomes. In contrast, sex-linked traits often show different patterns of inheritance in males and females due to the presence of X and Y chromosomes.
3. Consider the expression of traits: Autosomal traits can be either dominant or recessive, and their expression depends on the combination of alleles inherited from both parents. Sex-linked traits, particularly those linked to the X chromosome, can be more commonly expressed in males because they have only one X chromosome (XY), while females have two (XX).
4. Evaluate the statement about inheritance: The statement that autosomal traits are inherited only from the mother is incorrect. Autosomal traits are inherited from both parents. Similarly, the statement that sex-linked traits are inherited only from the father is incorrect; they can be inherited from either parent, depending on whether the trait is X-linked or Y-linked.
5. Clarify misconceptions: Autosomal traits are not always dominant, nor are sex-linked traits always recessive. Both types of traits can be either dominant or recessive, depending on the specific alleles involved. Additionally, autosomal traits are expressed in both sexes, not just males.