Chromosomal theory of inheritance was put forth by Sutton and Boveri after studying paraillel behaviour of genes and chromosomes during meiotic division. This theory states following points:
1. Chromosomal theory identifies chromosomes as the carrier of genetic material.
2. All the hereditary characters are transmitted by gametes. Nucleus of gametes, i.e. sperms and ova of the parents contain chromosomes which transmit the heredity to offspring.
3. Chromosomes are found in pairs in somatic or diploid cells.
4. During gamete formation, homologous chromosomes pair and segregate independently at meiosis. The diploid condition is converted into haploid condition. Thus each gamete contains only one chromosome of a pair.
5. During fertilization, the union of sperm and egg restores the diploid number of chromosomes.
