Q: Chromosome number

[Tim Taylor]

Hi,

I don't know very much about genetics, and would like to know the
answer to the following question: Is there any particular reason
(from a genetic point of view) why the genome of most species is
divided into a number of distinct chromosomes? Do certain 
chromosomes (other than the sex chromosomes) contain information
about distinct aspects of the developmental process/phenotype,
or do they all seem to contain a wide variety of genes? What are
the evolutionary implications of having a high chromosome number?

Any answers or suggestions much appreciated,

Thanks,

Tim.

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Tim Taylor, Department of Artificial Intelligence, University of Edinburgh
             tel +44-(0)131-650-3084/3081/4493 fax -650-6899
             home page http://www.dai.ed.ac.uk/students/timt