Glossary Terms

X Chromosome

A chromosome involved in determining an animal's sex. Females have two x chromosomes, whereas males have one x chromosome and one y chromosome.

X Linked

A gene carried on the x chromosome. The corresponding trait or condition, whether dominant or recessive, is always expressed in males. Females with a faulty gene are usually not affected by it as they have a second normal copy of the gene - they will however be a carrier of the trait or condition.