Question

What is sex determination? Explain the mechanism of sex determination in the case of birds.

Answer 1

Sex determination refers to the process by which sex is ascertained.

Sex determination mechanism in birds :

1. The ZW-ZZ system determines sex in birds.
2. Male birds are homogametic, whilst females are heterogametic.
3. Males generate sperm that contains the 'Z' sex chromosome.
4. Females lay two types of eggs, one with the Z chromosome and the other with the W chromosome.
5. A male offspring is created when a Z carrying egg is fertilised by a sperm. When a W-bearing egg is fertilised, female children are produced.