Sex-determined

Sex-determined refers to a characteristic, trait, or biological process whose presence or manifestation is established or influenced by an individual's sex, or a combination of both sex and genetics. This can be a result of differences in sex chromosomes, hormonal influences, or specific gene expression patterns linked to sex. sex-determined traits can be found in various biological systems, from morphological characteristics to physiological functions and behaviors. These distinctions underline the significant impact sex has in shaping the development and function of organisms.

Sex-determined meaning with examples

• In many bird species, the plumage color is a sex-determined trait, with males typically exhibiting brighter colors than females due to hormonal differences. This distinction plays a role in attracting mates during courtship. Studying these sex-determined traits helps us understand evolutionary pressures that favor specific characteristics. For example, bright plumage helps birds attract mates, and its presence is regulated by specific sex hormones.
• Certain genetic disorders, like color blindness or hemophilia, are sex-determined because their genes reside on the sex chromosomes (X chromosome) that determines sex, and the likelihood of expression varies with the sex of an individual. Understanding these sex-determined patterns assists in the identification of how to diagnose and treat conditions. The prevalence of these conditions is influenced by the sex of the individual.
• Hormonal cycles and reproductive behaviors, found in animals and humans are sex-determined traits, heavily influenced by hormones, primarily estrogen and testosterone, which regulate processes specific to their sex. For instance, the menstrual cycle is sex-determined and vital to female reproductive success. The production of these hormones leads to differences in mating patterns.
• The size and strength of certain muscles are sex-determined and may depend on hormonal influences, primarily testosterone. These differences result in variations in physical capacity between males and females, and the differences have impact on aspects of sports performance. This influence is tied to the presence or absence of hormonal traits, and how that drives the development of muscles.