chromosomes
Chromosomes are thread-like structures located inside the nucleus of animal and plant cells. Each chromosome is made of protein and a single molecule of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Passed from parents to offspring, DNA contains the specific instructions that make each type of living creature unique.
For an organism to grow and function properly, cells must constantly divide to produce new cells to replace old, worn-out cells. During cell division, it is essential that DNA remains intact and evenly distributed among cells. Chromosomes are a key part of the process that ensures DNA is accurately copied and distributed in the vast majority of cell divisions. Still, mistakes do occur on rare occasions.
Unlike what many prople think, the complexity of the animal does not determine the chromosome count. Eg. Chickens have 78 of chromosomes, yet cows, a more complex animal, only has 60 chromosomes. A theory is that some organisms have many small chromosomes, while others have fewer but larger chromosomes.
For an organism to grow and function properly, cells must constantly divide to produce new cells to replace old, worn-out cells. During cell division, it is essential that DNA remains intact and evenly distributed among cells. Chromosomes are a key part of the process that ensures DNA is accurately copied and distributed in the vast majority of cell divisions. Still, mistakes do occur on rare occasions.
Unlike what many prople think, the complexity of the animal does not determine the chromosome count. Eg. Chickens have 78 of chromosomes, yet cows, a more complex animal, only has 60 chromosomes. A theory is that some organisms have many small chromosomes, while others have fewer but larger chromosomes.