Genetics: Predicting Offspring Traits through Punnett Squares

Explanation:

The subject of this question is genetics, specifically dealing with Punnett squares and the prediction of offspring genotypes. When one parent is heterozygous black (Bb) and the other is homozygous brown (bb), the potential genotypes of their offspring are as follows: 50% heterozygous black fur (Bb) and 50% homozygous brown fur (bb).

As for the phenotypes, the corresponding percentages would be 50% black fur and 50% brown fur. The reason behind this is that having at least one 'B' allele results in a black fur phenotype because the 'B' allele is dominant over the 'b' allele (brown).

This genetic inheritance pattern follows Mendelian genetics principles, where dominant alleles mask the expression of recessive alleles. Through the use of Punnett squares, geneticists can predict the likelihood of different genotypes and phenotypes in offspring based on the parents' genetic information.

In this specific case, crossing a heterozygous black fur parent (Bb) with a homozygous brown fur parent (bb) results in a 50% chance of offspring having black fur and a 50% chance of having brown fur. This demonstrates how genetic traits are passed down from parents to offspring in a predictable manner.

Understanding how genetic traits are inherited can provide valuable insights into population genetics, evolutionary biology, and the potential for genetic disorders. By studying Punnett squares and genetic crosses, scientists can unravel the complexities of genetic inheritance and make informed predictions about the traits of future generations.