The fusion of haploid male and female gametes leads to the formation of _____________

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Gametes:**
- Male and female gametes are reproductive cells. The male gamete is typically a sperm cell, and the female gamete is an egg cell.
- Both of these gametes are haploid, meaning they contain one set of chromosomes.

2. **Fertilization Process:**
- When a male gamete (sperm) fuses with a female gamete (egg), this process is called fertilization.
- During fertilization, the genetic material from both gametes combines.

3. **Formation of Zygote:**
- The fusion of the haploid male and female gametes results in the formation of a diploid cell known as a zygote.
- A zygote contains two sets of chromosomes (one from each parent), making it diploid (2N).

4. **Significance of Zygote:**
- The zygote is the first cell of a new organism and will undergo multiple rounds of cell division and differentiation to develop into a new individual.
- The genetic contribution from both parents means that the offspring will inherit traits from both the male and female parent.

5. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the answer to the question is that the fusion of haploid male and female gametes leads to the formation of a **zygote**.

**Final Answer:** Zygote

---