Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement (I): Genetic disorders are caused by mutations.
Statement (II): Achondroplasia is the example of environmental defect in cattle.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are correct.
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are incorrect.
• C. Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect.
• D. Statement (I) is incorrect but Statement (II) is correct.

Hint:

Hereditary defects like achondroplasia are passed from parents to offspring, whereas environmental defects (e.g., due to maternal nutritional deficiencies or toxins during gestation) are not transmissible to subsequent generations.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Genetic disorders are pathological conditions caused by one or more abnormalities in the genome.
These abnormalities can arise from point mutations, gene deletions, duplications, or major chromosomal aberrations.
Understanding whether a developmental defect is genetic or environmental is crucial for livestock breeding and herd management.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate both statements:
Statement (I) is correct.
Genetic disorders are inherently caused by mutations in the DNA sequence of an organism.
These mutations alter the structure or expression of vital proteins, leading to metabolic, structural, or physiological defects.
Statement (II) is incorrect.
Achondroplasia is a specific hereditary form of dwarfism characterized by short limbs and abnormal bone development.
In cattle, achondroplasia is well-documented (such as the "bulldog" dwarfism in Dexter and Hereford cattle) and is inherited as an autosomal dominant trait caused by specific mutations in the FGFR3 gene.
Since it is an inherited genetic defect rather than an environmental defect, Statement (II) is false.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Statement (I) is correct but Statement (II) is incorrect.