Question

C-value paradox refers to

• A. the lack of correlation between genome size and genetic complexity of an organism
• B. the presence of genetic sequences that propagate themselves within a genome
• C. the coexistence of multiple alleles at a genetic locus
• D. the concept that two or more genes may have the same function

Hint:

- "C-value paradox" = Genome size \(\not\propto\) complexity.
- Remember examples: salamanders and some plants have far larger genomes than humans.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: The "C-value" refers to the total amount of DNA (genome size) in a haploid nucleus of an organism.
Step 2: The paradox is that genome size does not correlate with the organism's complexity. For example, some amphibians and plants have much larger genomes than humans, yet humans are more complex organisms.
Step 3: This discrepancy arises because large portions of many genomes are composed of non-coding DNA, repetitive sequences, and transposable elements rather than protein-coding genes.
Final Answer: The C-value paradox refers to the lack of correlation between genome size and genetic complexity of an organism.
\[\boxed{\text{Correct Answer: (A)}}\]