Definition

Describing chromosomes that are made up of many strands and have their parts connected together.

Example

The polytene chromosomes in the fruit fly are used for genetic studies due to their large size and distinct banding patterns.

Conversation

Have you heard about the polytene chromosomes in fruit flies?

Yeah, I read that they're really interesting for genetic studies.

It's amazing how they can have so many strands all connected.

Definitely! They help scientists understand more about chromosome behavior.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polytene → It is formed from "poly-" (from Greek "polus", meaning many) and "tene" (from Greek "tenere", meaning to stretch or hold). The word "polytene" refers to a type of chromosome that consists of many strands, hence the meaning of many strands held together.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') strands that are 'held' ('tenere') together — that's what polytene means.

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