The person who first described polytene chromosomes was :-

Options

A. Balbiani
B. Walker & Allen
C. Golgi
D. Waldeyer

Answer

To answer the question "The person who first described polytene chromosomes was:", we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Polytene Chromosomes**:
- Polytene chromosomes are large chromosomes that have undergone multiple rounds of DNA replication without cell division, resulting in many sister chromatids lying side by side. This results in a characteristic banding pattern.

2. **Identifying the Contributor**:
- The question asks for the individual who first described these chromosomes. Historical knowledge in biology is crucial here.

3. **Evaluating the Options**:
- The options provided include various scientists. We need to determine who among them was responsible for the discovery of polytene chromosomes.

4. **Researching Historical Context**:
- Polytene chromosomes were first described by a scientist in the year 1881. This is a key detail that can help us identify the correct answer.

5. **Identifying the Correct Scientist**:
- The scientist who described polytene chromosomes in 1881 is **Balbiani**. He noted the light and dark banding patterns of these chromosomes and their significance in chromosomal rearrangements and deletions.

6. **Eliminating Incorrect Options**:
- Other options like Golgi and Waldher are known for different contributions in biology, such as the discovery of the Golgi apparatus and the coinage of the term "chromosome," respectively. They did not describe polytene chromosomes.

7. **Final Answer**:
- Based on the above steps, the correct answer is **Balbiani**.

### Final Answer:
The person who first described polytene chromosomes was **Balbiani**.

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