Which of the following geneticist coined the term linkage ?

Options

A. Blakeslee
B. Morgan
C. Muller
D. Bateson and Punnet

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks which geneticist coined the term "linkage". This requires knowledge of historical figures in genetics and their contributions.

2. **Chromosomal Theory of Inheritance**: The chromosomal theory of inheritance was independently proposed by two scientists, Sutton and Boveri. This theory laid the groundwork for understanding how genes are inherited through chromosomes.

3. **Experimental Verification**: Although Sutton and Boveri proposed the theory, it was Thomas Hunt Morgan who provided experimental evidence to support it. He conducted experiments using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster.

4. **Coining the Term "Linkage"**: During his experiments, Thomas Hunt Morgan observed that certain genes were inherited together more often than would be expected by chance. He described this phenomenon as "linkage", which refers to the physical association of genes located on the same chromosome.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the geneticist who coined the term "linkage" is Thomas Hunt Morgan.

**Final Answer**: Thomas Hunt Morgan.

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