Abstract

Avian sex determination is chromosomal; however, the underlying mechanisms are not yet understood. There is no conclusive evidence for either of two proposed mechanisms: a dominant genetic switch or a dosage mechanism. No dominant sex-determining gene on the female-specific W chromosome has been found. Birds lack inactivation of one of the Z chromosomes in males, but seem to compensate for a double dose of Z-linked genes by other mechanisms. Recent studies showing female-specific expression of two genes may support an active role of the W chromosome. To resolve the question of avian sex determination the investigation of birds with a 2A: ZZW or 2A: Z0 genotype would be decisive. Here, we report the case of an apparent 2A: ZZW great reed warbler (Acrocephalus arundinaceus) female breeding in a natural population, which was detected using Z-linked microsatellites. Our data strongly suggest a role of W-linked genes in avian sex determination

Keywords

sex determination; ZZW; chromosomal aberration; W-chromosome; Acrocephalus arundinaceus

Published in

Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences
2004, Volume: 271, pages: S249-S251
Publisher: ROYAL SOC LONDON

SLU Authors

• Arlt, Debora

  • Department of Conservation Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

Publication identifier

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2003.0155

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/3411