Which of the following characteristics indicates that a trait is inherited in a sex-linked manner rather than autosomal?

• A. The trait skips generations.
• B. The trait appears equally in both males and females.
• C. The trait is influenced by environmental factors.
• D. The trait is more common in males than in females.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of sex-linked inheritance: Sex-linked traits are associated with genes located on sex chromosomes, typically the X chromosome. Since males have one X and one Y chromosome, while females have two X chromosomes, the inheritance patterns can differ between sexes.
2. Recognize the difference between autosomal and sex-linked traits: Autosomal traits are linked to genes on non-sex chromosomes and typically appear equally in both males and females. Sex-linked traits, however, often show a different pattern due to the presence of sex chromosomes.
3. Identify the characteristic of sex-linked traits: A key indicator of sex-linked inheritance is that the trait is more common in males than in females. This is because males have only one X chromosome, so a recessive trait on the X chromosome will be expressed if present.
4. Consider the inheritance pattern: In sex-linked recessive traits, females can be carriers without expressing the trait, while males will express the trait if they inherit the recessive allele from their mother.
5. Evaluate the options given: The trait skipping generations or being influenced by environmental factors does not specifically indicate sex-linked inheritance. The trait being more common in males is a strong indicator of sex-linked inheritance.