How have Walter Sutton and Theodor Boveri contributed to the understanding of inheritance? (A) By determining the structure of DNA (B) By improving knowledge of sex linkage (C) By demonstrating the effect of environment on phenotype (D) By identifying the importance of chromosomes in inheritance - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 15 - 2007 - Paper 1

Walter Sutton and Theodor Boveri made significant contributions to the understanding of inheritance by highlighting the role of chromosomes. Their work led to the chromosomal theory of inheritance, which states that chromosomes are the carriers of genetic material. Sutton proposed that genes are located on chromosomes, while Boveri's experiments provided evidence that chromosomes play a crucial role in ensuring the proper distribution of genetic material during cell division. Together, their findings laid the foundational principles of genetics, showing that the behavior of chromosomes during meiosis directly influences genetic inheritance.