🦠microbiology review

Morgan

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

Morgan refers to Thomas Hunt Morgan, an American geneticist known for his pioneering work on the role of chromosomes in heredity. He established the chromosomal theory of inheritance through his experiments with fruit flies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Thomas Hunt Morgan discovered that genes are located on chromosomes.
  2. Morgan's work with Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) provided crucial evidence for the chromosomal theory of inheritance.
  3. He demonstrated that some traits are sex-linked and can be traced to specific chromosomes.
  4. Morgan received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1933 for his discoveries concerning the role played by chromosomes in heredity.
  5. His research laid the foundation for modern genetics and molecular biology.
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