Why is it important to have haploid gametes?

Answer 1

To prevent the chromosome number from doubling every generation.

Sexual reproduction involves two cells (gametes) combining their chromosomes. The process is fertilization, and the product is a zygote.

If each gamete has a single set of chromosomes (as happens in humans, most other animals, and many plants) the zygote will have two sets of chromosomes. Whatever the zygote grows into, whether a person, pelican, or pineapple, every cell in the body will have two sets. If the gametes also have two sets each, the next zygote will have four, and so on, until you need a wheelbarrow to carry your chromosomes around!

So every life-cycle that includes a doubling of the chromosome number also includes a halving, and that process is called meiosis. Meiosis occurs at different times in different life-cycles. In humans meiosis happens when the gametes are being formed, but in plants it happens when spores are being formed.

Answer 2

It is neccessary to have a haploid (n) number of chromosomes in gametes because if diploid gametes are produced rather than haploid gametes, then the number of chromosomes in the body would double every time meiosis occured, and quickly most of the cells in the body would be of chromosomes. Therefore, haploid number of chromosomes must be produced at the end of meiosis.

Answer 3

Gametes are sex cells such as sperm and egg so they MUST be haploid because when they combine to make a baby the baby has one full set of chromosomes. not 2.

Answer 4

Haploid cells carry genetic traits from parents to offspring

Answer 5

the haploid cells(gametes) will eventually come together and make a diploid(zygote)

Answer 6

Gametes are sex cells such as sperm and egg so they MUST be haploid because when they combine to make a baby the baby has one full set of chromosomes. not 2.

Answer 7

The two gametes have to come together to form a diploid cell, so each gamete has to be haploid. 23+23=46 chromosomes

Answer 8

So there is variety within the species. Variety helps species adapt to the environment better then something that reporduces asexually or throught mitosis.