Who developed the chromosome theory of inheritance?

The chromosome theory of inheritance was formulated by Walter Sutton and Theodore Boveri in the early 20th century. This theory posits that chromosomes, which are structures within cells that contain DNA, play a fundamental role in the transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next. Sutton's work, particularly with grasshoppers, demonstrated that chromosomes segregate during meiosis, leading to the inheritance of traits according to Mendelian laws. Boveri contributed complementary insights by linking the behavior of chromosomes during cell division to the principles of inheritance.

This theory laid the foundation for modern genetics, linking the physical observation of chromosomes to the abstract principles established by Gregor Mendel regarding heredity. Mendel's work was crucial, but he did not develop the chromosome theory, nor were Darwin and the duo of Watson and Crick involved in this specific framework of inheritance. Darwin is known for his theory of natural selection, while Watson and Crick are famous for elucidating the structure of DNA rather than inheritance mechanisms involving chromosomes.