Chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans have DNA sequences that are almost identical to those of humans; however, these genes are found on 24 pairs of chromosomes in apes, while humans have 23 pairs. The C2 chromosome in humans is a large chromosome with similar banding pattern and DNA sequences to two smaller chromosomes in apes (C2 and C4). In addition it appears to have both a vestigial second centromere and telomere sequences in the middle of the strand.
-It is believed that early hominins interbred with each other. Ancient humans may have successfully mated with both Neanderthal and Denisovans. What must be true of these species for this to occur? They must have
A)been triploid.
B)had a similar C2 to humans and only 23 pairs of chromosomes.
C)actually been human.
D)had 24 chromosomes, so nondisjunction could occur.
E)had wild type phenotypic traits identical to humans.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For early hominins to successfully interbreed with humans, they would need to have similar chromosomes to humans, including a C2 chromosome and only 23 pairs of chromosomes. This would allow for viable offspring to be produced.

Chimpanzees, Gorillas, and Orangutans Have DNA Sequences That Are Almost