Gynandromorphs

Abstract

Scope of Study: Gynandromorphs are individuals in which the distinction between male and female is somewhat vague. These sex mosaics are separated from the other mosaics in that the tissue differences are due to differences in the sex chromosome content of the cells of the tissues. This report deals with the mechanisms which bring about these gynandromorphic occurrences. The majority of the work done with sex mosaics has been with the fruit fly, Drosophila. Also of concern is the frequency of gynandromorphic incidence for both spontaneous and irradiation induced occurrences. The distribution of sex mosaics in forms of life other than Drosophila is included in this report. Material for this report was compiled from books and journals dealing with gynandromorphs and related subjects.

Findings and Conclusions: Gynandromorphs occur in many forms of life. The method of occurrence differs between the various types of organisms. The most widely distributed method by which sex mosaics arise is by the elimination of a sex chromosome in an early stage of cleavage divisions.