Figure 2.6: Diploid eukaryotic cells have two sets of chromosomes (a) A set of chromosomes from a female human cell. Each pair of chromosomes is hybridized to a uniquely colored probe, giving it a distinct color. (b) The chromosomes are present in homologous pairs, which consist of chromosomes that are alike in size and structure and carry information for the same characteristics.
[part a: Courtesy of Dr. Thomas ried and Dr. evelin Schrock.]