Polytene chromosomes were discovered by

Options

A. Muller
B. Hofmeister
C. Balbiani
D. Waldeyer

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Question**: The question asks about the discovery of polytene chromosomes and provides multiple-choice options.

2. **Recall the Options**: The options given are:
- A) Muller
- B) Hofmeister
- C) Balbiani
- D) Waldier

3. **Determine the Correct Answer**: Based on historical knowledge, polytene chromosomes were discovered by Balbiani in the year 1881. Therefore, the correct answer is **C) Balbiani**.

4. **Define Polytene Chromosomes**: Polytene chromosomes are large chromosomes that contain thousands of DNA strands. Unlike typical chromosomes that have a single DNA strand, polytene chromosomes have multiple strands due to the duplication of chromatids without segregation.

5. **Identify the Source of Discovery**: Polytene chromosomes were first observed in the salivary glands of the organism Chironomus, which is a member of the order Diptera.

6. **Explain the Structure and Function**: Polytene chromosomes exhibit thick and thin banding patterns, which are useful for identifying chromosomal mutations and for taxonomic identification.

7. **Understand the Formation**: Polytene chromosomes are formed from diploid nuclei through successive duplication of each chromatid without the segregation of chromatids, leading to larger chromosomes with many DNA segments.

8. **Clarify Their Presence in Organisms**: It is important to note that polytene chromosomes are not found in humans; they are primarily found in insects of the order Diptera.

**Final Answer**: Polytene chromosomes were discovered by **C) Balbiani**.

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