X-linked traits

X-linked traits are characteristics determined by genes located on the X chromosome, one of the two sex chromosomes in humans. Males have one X and one Y chromosome, while females have two X chromosomes. Because males have only one X, any gene on that X will express its trait, even if it’s a recessive one. In contrast, females need two copies of a recessive gene on their X chromosomes to show the trait. This is why certain conditions, like hemophilia and color blindness, are more common in males than females, as they are X-linked conditions.