|
(complex gene) A group of closely linked genes that determine different aspects of the same character and tend to act as a single functional unit. The S/s gene, which determines the 'pin' (s) and 'thrum' (S) style character of numerous Primula species, is an example. Besides controlling style length, it also has loci for stigma morphology, incompatibility reactions, pollen surface characteristics, and anther position. Very occasionally crossing over occurs between these loci resulting in a plant with both pin and thrum characteristics.
|
