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Overall Colour:

Dominant: Greenish-grey color (G)

Recessive: Yellow color (Albinism) (a)

Yellow marks:

Dominant: No yellow marks (N)

Recessive: Yellow marks around the body (n)

Carapace flaps:

Dominant: Flaps on the underside of the carapace (F)

Recessive: No flaps (f)

Parent 1:

Trait 1 (Overall Colour): Ga

Trait 2 (Yellow Marks): nn

Trait 3 (Carapace Flaps): FF

Parent 2:

Trait 1 (Overall Colour): aa

Trait 2 (Yellow Marks): NN

Trait 3 (Flaps): FF

Parent 1:

1. Genotype Ga x nn x FF leads to Phenotype:Greenish-grey color, yellow marks and flaps on the underside of the carapace.

Parent 2:

1. Genotype aa x NN x FF leads to Phenotype:Yellow color (Albinism), no yellow marks and flaps on the underside of the carapace.

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Overall Colour:

Dominant: Greenish-grey color (G)

Recessive: Yellow color (Albinism) (a)

Yellow marks:

Dominant: No yellow marks (N)

Recessive: Yellow marks around the body (n)

Carapace flaps:

Dominant: Flaps on the underside of the carapace (F)

Recessive: No flaps (f)

Offspring Possible Genotypes and Phenotypes:

1-aanNFF which lead to a Phenotype: Yellow color (Albinism), no yellow marks and Flaps on the underside of the carapace.

2-GanNFF which leads to a Phenotype: Greenish-grey color, no yellow marks and Flaps on the underside of the carapace.

The genotypes and phenotypes will appear identical due to the limited genetic variation among the turtle's population. Specifically, only two genotype for an offspring is possible, each corresponding to a distinct phenotype.

This, exemplifies a simple Mendelian inheritance pattern where the presence of only two viable genotypes limits the phenotype diversity. Consequently, the phenotypic expressions are predictable and exhibit minimal variation.

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Indian Flapshell Turtle (Lissemys Punctata Andersoni)

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Indian Flapshell Turtle (Lissemys Punctata Andersoni)

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This study adresses an abnormal case of mutation in the species Lissemys Punctata Andersoni found in exclusively in two ocations, in India and Nepal, known as Indian Flap-shell Turtle. This Species of Turtle usually presents with a Greenish-grey overall colour, yellow marks around head and neck, yellow dotted grey caparace, and gains his name for the femoral flaps at the ventral part of the shell.

Normal-coloured Indian Flap-Shell turtles are commonly found Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka most typically near stagnant water bodies. Due to their color, its easy for them to camouflage in the turbulent greenish water. Contrary to its variant with chromatic leucism. which is easily recognisable due to its vibrant yellow colour, what makes it more vulnerable to predators.

This kind of turtle is omnivorous. Its diet is based in anything from leaves, to snails, fish and even frogs.

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After news of the existence of a yellow turtle in India's eastern state of Odisha went viral this past July, Nepalis wanted to remind the world that they made a similar discovery first - on April 14, 2018, to be exact - when a rare, golden turtle - but a different species - was found for the first time in southeastern Nepal's Dhanushadham municipality.

According to a research paper by Kamal Devkota, Dev Narayan Mandal and Hinrich Kaiser, which was published in the journal Herpetology Notes, the turtle was released into its natural habitat after pictures were taken as proof.

In an email interview with Global Voices, Devkota explained:

Our team member, Chandradeep Sada, rescued this rare golden turtle from Dhanushadham Municipality, Nepal on April 14, 2018. Later, Dev Narayan Mandal identified it as an Indian flapshell turtle [scientific name Lissemys punctata]. We further researched it and found that the colour aberrations are quite rare in nature. The lack of body pigmentation made the turtle appear golden coloured, with only the eyes showing a dark pigmentation.

This is the first chromatic leucism in L. punctata in Nepal, which is the first for the northern subspecies of L. punctata and the fifth documented observation in the species. That's why it is very important for conservationists and researchers.

A normal Indian flapshell turtle is greenish-grey in colour, with yellow marks on its head and neck. It has a grey carapace dotted with dark yellow spots and derives its name from the femoral flaps at the plastron, the ventral part of the shell.

These turtles are found in Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, most typically in ditches, lakes, ponds and paddy fields with stagnant water. Omnivorous in nature, they eat anything from leaves and flowers to snails, fish and frogs.

This is an Indian flap shell turtle, who (like many turtles) is hideous but wildly photogenic. He has something called "femoral flaps" which sounds revolting. pic.twitter.com/F7mjYcxu2Z

- SaraKateW (@SaraKateW) November 7, 2018

While a normal-coloured flapshell turtle can easily camouflage itself in the murky, greenish water, its golden-coloured variant - a turtle with chromatic leucism - is easily recognisable and therefore more vulnerable. Its luminous golden colour, in particular, makes it a prized pet.

Albinism and leucism in turtles

The congenital disorder of albinism creates a complete absence of pigmentation in the skin, hair and eyes due to the lack of tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the production of melanin. Researchers estimate that albinism occurs once in every 10,000 mammal births.

Leucism, on the other hand, is an extremely rare genetic condition in which animals have reduced pigmentation. Most leucistic animals have normal-coloured eyes, whereas those with albinism tend to have red or pink eyes.

Turtles in Nepal

Nepal is home to 16 species of turtles, of which four are critically endangered: the three-striped roofed turtle ( Kachuga dhongoka), the red-crowned roofed turtle ( Kachuga kachuga), the Indian narrow-headed softshell turtle ( Chitra indica) and the elongated tortoise ( Indotestudo elongata).

Though turtles play an important role in reducing pollution by feeding on insects, vegetation and dead animals, factors like habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation have been threatening their survival.

According to " Turtles of Nepal - A Field Guide for Species Accounts and Distribution," the draining of wetlands for irrigation and fishing, the excessive use of agrochemicals which eventually seep into waterways and unsustainable fishing methods all negatively impact turtle populations.

Adding to their woes is the illegal trade for keeping turtles as pets, as well as their use in traditional medicine. Some people believe in eating turtles and their eggs to achieve improved health, longevity and virility. Turtle shells are also used to make curio items.

Despite such threats to Nepal's turtles, conservationists and other local bodies, such as the Turtle Rescue and Conservation Center in eastern Nepal, have been working to save these magnificent creatures.

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A rare, golden turtle - first of its kind - discovered in Nepal

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The recent discovery of a yellow turtle in India drew a lot of attention, but it's not the first time one has been spotted.

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The Caparace of L. Punctata in in adults, from above, is commonly aprecciated as oval. Nonetheless, more circular in young specimens, and just wide enough anterior to hide limbs and is moderatly arched with a smooth Margin. In L. Punctata Andersoni, the marginal bones are not united with the pleurals. What gives this species its name as "Flapshel Turtle" are a pair of large flaps over the hind limbs and a smaller flap over the tail. The caparace is usually known to range between 240mm and 370mm, in male's it can grow up to 23cm and in females a maximum of 35cm has been registered.

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Albinism and Leucism - Sea Turtle Camp (The animal shown is not an Indian Flapshell turtle but a sea turtle with Leucism)

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Albinism and leucism

The congenital disorder of albinism creates a complete absence of pigmentation, due to the lack of tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the production of melanin.

Leucism, on the other hand, is an extremely rare genetic condition in which animals have reduced pigmentation, as this defect causes cells to develop improperly making them incapable of producing pigments, if not every cell is defective the animal could have patches of discoloration. Most leucistic animals have normal-coloured eyes, whereas those with albinism tend to have red or pink eyes.

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Posted by admin | 02.05.2014 | Marine Science

Every now and then nature surprises us! Albinism and leucism are two genetic deviations that always get a bit of media attention. The result of both is a shockingly white animal lacking the normal coloration of its species. To the untrained eye animals with both conditions appear to display very similar characteristics.

Leucism is a condition characterized by reduced pigmentation; unlike albinos most leucistic animals have normally colored eyes. This defect causes cells to develop improperly making them incapable of producing pigments. Since all pigment cell-types differentiate from the same type of precursor cell leucism can display itself in different ways. If not every cell is defective the animals with have patches of discoloration, this partial leucism is known as a "pied" or the "piebald" effect. If all the cells malfunction it will cause a reduction in all types of pigment resulting in a completely white animal. This universal type of leucim is often mistaken for albinism.

Albinism is a congenital disorder characterized by the complete absence of pigment in the skin, hair and eyes due to absence or defect of tyrosinase, a copper-containing enzyme involved in the production of melanin. Albinos completely lack melanin even the eyes appear red or pink due to the red of retina being visible through the iris. Researchers observe albinism occurs once out of every 10,000 mammal births.

As beautiful as these animals are the unfortunate reality is that they rarely survive in nature. Camouflage is important to every species, especially in their juvenile state. Animals displaying traits of Albinism or Leusicms lack the natural patterns that disguise them from predators, conceal them from prey, or help them attract mates.

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Every now and then nature surprises us! Albinism and leucism are two genetic deviations that always get a bit of media attention. The result of both is a shockingly white animal lacking the normal coloration of its species. To the untrained eye animals with both conditions appear to display very similar characteristics.

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Recombination of Genetic Material in Sexual Reproduction: 

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Recombination of Genetic Material in Sexual Reproduction: 

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Recombination is a process in sexual reproduction, occurring during meiosis, which consists of the division of a diploid cell, that is, provided with two sets of chromosomes, to give rise to four haploid cells or gametes (eggs and sperms), provided with a single set of chromosomes, half of the genetic load of the initial cell. Moreover, Prophase I is the first stage in the first meiotic division characterized by the exchange of DNA segments or genetic material between homologous chromosomes via a process called homologous recombination and the crossover at chiasma between non-sister chromatid which creates new combinations of alleles on each chromosome.Once the process of the formation of gametes is done the fusion of the membranes of the two gametes (sperm and egg) takes places in sexual reproduction, resulting in the formation of a channel that allows the passage of material between the cells of each parent. Therefore involves the direct exchange of genetic material between the cells, leading to the formation of a zygote that carries genetic information from both parents. The zygote,a single cell, is capable of undergoing cell division to form a new individual containing a unique combination of genes, distinct from both parents. The combination of these mechanisms results in remarkable genetic variation.

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Homologous Chromosomes, Dominant and Recessive Alleles:

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Homologous Chromosomes, Dominant and Recessive Alleles:

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Organisms inherit two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent, forming homologous chromosome pairs. Each chromosome within a pair contains the same genes at identical loci, although the specific versions of these genes, called alleles, may vary. Alleles can be categorized as dominant or recessive based on their expression patterns. A dominant allele exerts its phenotypic effect even when only one copy is present (heterozygous condition), whereas a recessive allele requires two copies (homozygous condition) to be phenotypically expressed.

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The genotype of an organism refers to its complete set of genes, specifically the combination of alleles that have been inherited from its parents. Moreover, for a given gene, the genotype could be homozygous dominant AA, heterozygous Aa, or homozygous recessive aa. Nevertheless, the phenotype is the observable manifestation of the genotype, influenced by genetic and environmental factors. For instance, the genotype determines the size of a turtle, but environmental factors like nutrition can influence the actual growth illustrating the genotype-phenotype interaction.

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Role and Use of Probability in Heredity Research:

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Role and Use of Probability in Heredity Research:

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Probability theory is integral to genetic research, providing a framework for predicting the distribution of alleles and traits in an offspring. Mendelian genetics, by Gregor Mendel (known as the father of gentetics), employs probability to forecast genetic cross outcomes, with tools like Punnett squares organizing the potential gamete combinations and resulting genotypes. Probability helps to predict specific genetic outcomes, uncover traits masked by dominant alleles, and solve complex genetic problems. Basic principles, such as calculating the likelihood of independent or mutually exclusive events, are applied to genetics. Gregor Mendel used probability to make key discoveries in inheritance patterns, which are crucial for understanding inheritance, predicting genetic disorder risks.

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Discussion how the outcome of our investigation contributes to development of scientific and math knowledge:

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Discussion how the outcome of our investigation contributes to development of scientific and math knowledge:

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Investigating the genetic inheritance of the Indian Flapshell Turtle (Lissemys punctata andersoni) can significantly contribute to the development of not only scientific knowledge but also mathematical in several ways:

Scientific:

Analyzing the genetics of this turtle, it provides insights of the genetic diversity, speciation, adaptation, and survival strategies. Moreover, if were comparative genomic studies to be done with ours, it would reveal evolutionary relationships and unique adaptations of different turtle species, enriching revolutionary biology.

Additionally, Identifying genetic variations and inheritance patterns informs how distinct turtle populations need specific conservation strategies, crucial for long-term survival and habitat protection programs.

Furthermore, by doing this study about genetic inheritance patterns, explains how genetic information influences physical traits like shell patterning, size, and coloration in turtle's population. It also aids in identifying genetic disorders, enhancing our understanding of heredity and gene expression in not only in Indian Flapshell Turtle's population but also in reptiles in general.

Last but not least, it could help to reveal how these turtles adapt to their environments, including responses to climate change, habitat fragmentation, and pollution, depending on their genetical inheritance that affects theircphysiscal traits in not only appearance but also capacities. This is essential for predicting future environmental responses.

Mathematical:

On the other hand, this study can contribute to the development and refinement of mathematical models in population genetics such as the Mendelian. These models describe the genetic structure of populations, gene flow, mutation rates...

This study also provides data that can be used to develop quantitative genetic models in order to predict how genetic traits are passed on through generations and help in estimating heritability and genetic relation between traits.

Lastly, the outcome of this study can enhance mathematical models which can simulate different conservation strategies and predict their outcomes, aiding decision-making processes.

By and large, this study provides overall insights on the genetics patterns controlling physical traits in Indian Flap shell turtles, thereby advancing our understanding of biological and genetic diversity. Indeed, these inheritance patterns not only enriches scientific knowledge but also informs about conservation strategies for the species.

Furthermore, the application of probability theory to real-world biological scenario exemplifies how genetic outcomes can be predicted and quantified thanks to this type of study which fosters a deeper comprehension of heredity and its practical implications thank to the interdisciplinary between genetics and mathematics

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Expected number of individuals displaying each Genotype and Phenotype:

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Expected number of individuals displaying each Genotype and Phenotype:

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An Indian flapshell turtles may lay their eggs 2 or 3 times per year in clutches of 2 to 16, usually buried in soil. If we were to consider than an average Indian flapshell turtle lays an average of 10 eggs 3 times a year we get to the conclusion that:

Considering the Punnet Square, the percentage of having each allele in its Genotype will be:

50% of having Greenish-grey color (G)

50% of having yellow color (Albinism) (a)

100% of having no yellow marks (N)

100% of having yellow marks around the body (n)

100% of having Flaps on the underside of the carapace

0% of having no flaps

Considering all of the above, the most likely percentage of each trait being displayed in an offspring phenotype will be:

50% of being Greenish-grey color (G)

50% of being Yellow color (Albinism) (a)

100% of having no yellow marks (N)

0% of having yellow marks around the body (n)

100% of having flaps on the underside of the carapace (F)

0% of having no flaps (f)

So, considering all of the above, if a turtle has an average of 30 babies per year the number of them having each allele in their Genotype:

OVERALL COLOUR:

-15 turtles will have Greenish-grey color (G) dominant allele in their Genotype.

-15 turtles will have Yellow color (Albinism) (a) recessive allele in their Genotype.

YELLOW MARKS:

-The 30 turtles will have no yellow marks (N) dominant allele in their Genotype.

-And also the same 30 turtles will have yellow marks around the body (n) recessive allele in their Genotype.

CAPARACE FLAPS:

-30 turtles will have flaps on the underside of the carapace (F) dominant allele in their Genotype.

-0 turtles will have no flaps (f) recessive allele in their Genotype.

On the other hand, the most likely scenario of the possible phenotype of the baby turtles:

-15 babies will exhibit a Greenish colour with no yellow marks and no flaps.

-15 babies will exhibit an Albinism colour with no yellow marks and no flaps.

So, while all offspring will carry the allele for yellow marks (n), none will show it due to the presence of the dominant allele (N). Additionally, they will have an equal chance of being either Greenish-grey or Yellow, but all will lack yellow marks and will have carapace flaps.

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https://www.biotaxa.org/hn/article/view/63581

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Description the effect on phenotype probabilities of a possible case of multiple allelism:

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Description the effect on phenotype probabilities of a possible case of multiple allelism:

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Multiple allelism involves more than two alleles for a given trait. If the color gene had more than two alleles (G for Greenish-grey, A for Albinism, and B for Brown), the possible combinations and resulting phenotypes would be increased. The probability of each phenotype would depend on the specific allele combinations of dominance and recessive. For instance, the introduction of a Brown allele (B) could result in phenotypes displaying Greenish-grey, Yellow, Brown, or combinations therefore, depending on the dominance relationships among the alleles.

The different phenotypes that could result from different combinations of these alleles would depend on the dominance among them. Here are some possible situations inside the multiple allelism case:

Complete Dominance:

If G is dominant over both a and B, turtles with GG or GA or GB genotypes would have greenish-grey color, while aa would be albino, and aB and BB would be brown assuming that B is dominant over a.

Incomplete Dominance:

If alleles blend , a turtle with a Ga genotype might have a lighter shade of greenish-grey colour skin compared to GG, and a GB genotype might result in a mix of greenish-grey and brown, resulting in an intermediate color.

Codominance:

If both alleles are fully expressed or in other words as dominant, a turtle with in its genotype GA might have patches of greenish-grey and albino , while a GB genotype might show both greenish-grey and brown patches of colour.The same will happen with AB.

However, if there was a case of multiple allelism our results would end up different, this is the most likely scenario if this case were to happen:

With multiple alleles, the possible genotypes expand to include combinations like GB, Ga, and Ba.

Therefore, the Phenotype Probabilities:

The dominance hierarchy would determine the phenotypes. If G > B > a:

GG, GB, Ga: Greenish-grey (G dominant)

BB, Ba: Brown (B dominant over a)

aa: Yellow (Albinism)

The probabilities for offspring phenotypes migt be:

Greenish-grey (G dominant): 50%

Brown (B dominant): 25%

Yellow (Albinism): 25%

Thus, multiple allelism increases the complexity and diversity of likely phenotypes, leading to a variety of observable traits among the offspring.

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An Indian flapshell turtle ) with its characteristic greyish-green body coloration is especially notable for its distinct yellow markings along the sides of its neck and the prominent yellow spots scattered across its carapace. These vibrant markings provide not only a striking visual contrast against the turtle's more subdued body color but also serve as key identification features distinguishing Lissemys punctata andersoni from other subspecies within its range.

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Discussion and evaluation of 2 strengths and 1 limitation of the combination of math and science to address our research:

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Discussion and evaluation of 2 strengths and 1 limitation of the combination of math and science to address our research:

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This genetic study of the Indian Flapshell Turtle integrates scientific and mathematical methods to better understand its genetics and support conservation efforts. However, during the process, there were some strengths and limitations:

Strenghts:

The integration of mathematical models and scientific data allows to make a precise analysis of genetic inheritance and population dynamics. Indeed, mathematical tools such as the Punnet Square genetics provide frameworks for interpreting complex genetic data, revealing patterns and trends that might be overlooked if it wasn't because of it.

This strength is crucial for understanding the genetic structure and evolutionary processes of the turtle species, and it enablies more accurate predictions about the species' genetic health and adaptability.

Combining mathematical and scientific approaches to approach this kind of studies , brings together diverse perspectives and expertise, fostering innovation at the same time as precision. This interdisciplinary harmonious blend can lead to methods and solutions that might not emerge within a single discipline. Thus, this approach enhances the research quality and breadth, potentially leading to more comprehensive and innovative strategies to carry on with the study and its goal.

Limitation:

The accuracy of mathematical models and the insights they provide are significantly dependent on the quality and accuracy of the genetic data. Therefore, inadequate or inaccurate data can lead to incorrect conclusions and predictions.Hence, ensuring high-quality, comprehensive genetic data collection is essential for the reliability of the models. This limitation highlights the need for rigorous data collection monitoring.

In conclusion, the combination of mathematics and science in studying Lissemys punctata andersoni gentetic pattern inheritance, presents significant strengths, but also poses challenges, such as the ones mentioned previously. Notwithstanding, balancing these strengths and limitations through interdisciplinary collaboration and rigorous data collection, it can significantly maximize the effectiveness of this research.