Biology/Genetics of twins
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Question
I want to be able to explain or possibly set up a science fair project on twins; fraternal vs maternal and I have heard of "seperate sets" or a split egg that produces identical twins. Is identical always maternal?
Hi Mallory:
I am confused by your term maternal twins. Twins are fraternal or identical. When only a single sperm is involved the twins are identical with similiar DNA, Fraternal twins result from separate fertilizations. They are no different than siblings born at different times.
I am also not aware of the term "separate sets".
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Biology
Answers by Expert:
Walter Hintz
Expertise
Science teacher for over 50 years. MSc. in biology. I can answer questions in general biology, zoology, botany, anatomy and physiology and biochemistry.
Experience
I have a MSc in biology and have been a science teacher for over 50 years. At present I am a faculty member at a college and a science consultant at seven catholic schools.
Publications
The Ohio journal of Science
Momentum-The Journal of the Catholic Education Association
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