Calico Cats are Female Because

Question

Calico cats are female because
A) the males die during embryonic development.
B) a male inherits only one of the two X-linked genes controlling hair color.
C) the Y chromosome has a gene blocking orange coloration.
D) only females can have Barr bodies.
E) multiple crossovers on the Y chromosome prevent orange pigment production.

Accepted Answer

Calico cats have a coat color determined by two X-linked genes, one for black and one for orange. Females have two X chromosomes, so they can inherit both genes and have a varied coat color. However, males only have one X chromosome, so they can inherit only one of the two genes and have a solid coat color. Therefore, calico cats are almost always female.