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IB Biology HL A3.1.13 Chromosome number as a species trait Question Bank

Practise IB Biology HL A3.1.13 by calculating haploid and diploid chromosome numbers and interpreting chromosome number as a species trait.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Biology HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • Calculate haploid and diploid chromosome numbers from gamete and somatic-cell data.
  • Identify why a species has a characteristic, fixed haploid chromosome number.

A3.1.13 (HL)—Chromosome number as shared trait question 1

[Maximum number: 2]

The Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) is a critically endangered species that has declined in numbers by 80 % since 2000 . It inhabits both forest and grassland, where it uses long, powerful claws to open ant and termite nests and ingests the insects using a long, sticky tongue.

Figure for Question A3.1.13 (HL)—Chromosome number as shared trait question 1 — IB Biology HL

Question (a)

(a)

The Chinese pangolin, Manis pentadactyla, has a diploid chromosome number of 40.

[ 2 ]

Question (i)

(i)

State how many chromosomes there would be in gametes of this species.

Figure for Question (i) — IB Biology HL
[ 1 ]

Question (ii)

(ii)

Sex is determined in the same way in pangolins as in humans. State how many autosomes there are in somatic cells of M. pentadactyla.

[ 1 ]
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