What are the differences between autosomes and allosomes?
Posted January 16, 2023
Basis of Differentiation |
Autosomes |
Allosomes |
Definition |
Autosomes are the chromosomes that determine somatic or physical characteristics of an organism. |
Allosomes are sex chromosomes that contain genes and determine the sex and sex-linked inheritance of an organism. |
Number in the human genome |
The human genome has 22 pairs of autosomes. Each autosome has several genes each of which performs unique and specific functions. |
The human genome has 1 pair of allosomes. |
Appearance in humans |
The pair of autosomes are homologous in humans. |
The pair may differ from one another in humans. Female allosomes are homologous while male allosomes are non-homologous. |
Influence in determining sex characteristics |
Do not have any influence on the determination of sex and related characteristics. |
Have a significant role in sex determination. During meiosis, the X and the Y chromosomes pair together and this pairing influences sex determination. |
The different levels of genetic diversity in sex chromosomes and autosomes