How are females represented in a pedigree chart?

In a pedigree chart, females are represented by circles. This visual representation helps in tracing the lineage and inheritance of traits across generations in a family. Each circle in the chart signifies a female individual, and when they are connected to squares, which denote males, it creates a clear structure for understanding familial relationships and the transmission of genetic conditions.

The circles in the chart often indicate different statuses, such as affected or unaffected by a particular trait or condition, usually marked with shading or other notations. This system allows for a quick visual identification of females within complex family trees, which is crucial for genetic counseling and understanding hereditary conditions. The use of circles to represent females has become standard practice in genetics, making it universally recognizable in pedigree analysis.