Question

To which class of Drosophila developmental genes does fushi tarazu (ftz) belong?

• A. Gap genes
• B. Segment polarity genes
• C. Pair rule genes
• D. Maternal effect genes

Hint:

Pair rule genes are involved in forming alternating segments during embryonic development in Drosophila.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the question.
The question asks to classify the Drosophila developmental gene fushi tarazu (ftz). This gene plays a critical role in the segmentation of the Drosophila embryo.
Step 2: Analyzing the options.
- (A) Incorrect, gap genes are responsible for the establishment of broad segments in the developing embryo but do not specifically form alternating patterns like ftz.
- (B) Incorrect, segment polarity genes determine the boundaries within segments, but ftz operates earlier in the process.
- (C) Correct, ftz is a pair rule gene, which is involved in the segmentation process by forming a pattern of alternating stripes.
- (D) Incorrect, maternal effect genes influence development based on the mother’s genotype but do not directly determine the pattern of segmentation like ftz.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Thus, the correct answer is (C) Pair rule genes.