What is the typical chromosome count for the domestic horse, *Equus caballus*?
Answer
64 chromosomes
The domestic horse, scientifically designated as *Equus caballus*, possesses a fixed count of 64 chromosomes. This figure serves as one side of the necessary genetic comparison when discussing the creation of a zorse. The substantial difference between the horse's 64 chromosomes and the zebra's lower count (e.g., 44 for the Plains zebra) is the core issue leading to reproductive barriers. While fertilization can occur because they share the *Equus* genus, the resulting chromosomal mismatch during development almost invariably results in the sterility of the hybrid.
Related Questions
To which scientific genus do the zebra, domestic horse, and donkey all belong?What is the known chromosome count for the Plains zebra (*Equus quagga*)?Why is the zorse generally not assigned a formal binomial scientific name?How is the common name 'Zorse' derived according to popular nomenclature rules?What is the typical chromosome count for the domestic horse, *Equus caballus*?What genetic feature primarily causes the zorse offspring to be sterile?Where are the zebra stripes on a zorse most prominently featured physically?What specific detail must an owner typically declare when registering a zorse for management purposes?What evolutionary concept does the creation of a zorse demonstrate in action?What equid hybrid results from the cross between a zebra and a donkey?