In pea plants, Mendel observed several traits that had two alleles. However, not all traits exhibit this pattern of
inheritance. In the Mongolian gerbil, there is a gene that controls the balance of black and yellow within the fur.
The first version of the allele, E, causes fur to have a dark base and black tips, with yellow in the middle. A mutation
causes the, e allele, which decreases the amount of black in the fur and results in a lighter appearance. There is also
a third version, e', which causes fading of all the black pigment, resulting in a very light-yellow coat.


Part 1: Based on the information provided, what can you conclude about the pattern of inheritance for this gene?

Part 2: How would gerbil colors be different if there were two alleles, as Mendel noted in pea plants? Explain how
this is different from what is observed.