Homologous chromosomes are paired chromosomes that carry the same genes in the same order but may contain different alleles. One member of each pair is inherited from the mother and the other from the father. Key points
- Structure and pairing
- Each homologous chromosome in a pair is similar in length and centromere position, and they align during meiosis through synapsis.
- They are not identical; alleles at many loci can differ between the two homologs.
- Function in inheritance
- During meiosis, crossing over can occur between homologs, shuffling alleles and increasing genetic diversity in gametes.
- Proper pairing and segregation of homologs are essential for accurate distribution of genetic material to offspring.
- Distinction from sister chromatids
- Homologous chromosomes are a pair of chromosomes (one from each parent); sister chromatids are identical copies produced after DNA replication and held together at the centromere.
If you’d like, I can add diagrams or create a concise comparison table showing homologous chromosomes vs. sister chromatids, or explain how crossing over between homologs contributes to genetic variation.
