Who coined the term 'allele'?

Options

A. Saunders
B. Bateson
C. Johannsen
D. Mendel

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Term 'Allele':**
- An allele is a variant form of a gene. In genetics, alleles are responsible for the variations in traits that can be observed in organisms.

2. **Origin of the Term:**
- The term 'allele' is derived from the word 'allelomorph,' which was used in the context of genetics during the time of Gregor Mendel, who is known as the father of genetics.

3. **Identifying the Coiner of the Term:**
- The term 'allele' was coined by a British geneticist named William Bateson. He introduced this term along with several other important genetic terms.

4. **Eliminating Incorrect Options:**
- The other options provided (Saunders, Johnson, and Mendel) can be eliminated based on their contributions:
- **Saunders** was associated with Bateson but did not coin the term.
- **Johnson** is not known for this term.
- **Mendel** is known for his laws of inheritance but did not coin the term 'allele.'

5. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question "Who coined the term 'allele'?" is **Bateson**.

**Final Answer:** The term 'allele' was coined by **William Bateson**.

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