Which type of mutation occurs in reproductive cells and can be passed to offspring? somatic mutation germline mutation point mutation frameshift mutation

germline mutation

Explanation:

It is germ line mutation which can be passed on from one generation to another that means from parents to off springs. The term germ relates to the one which is capable of germination i.e. reproduction.

There are two types of cells in our body (1) somatic cells (2) germ cells.

Germ cells are the cells which are produced in the primary sex organs like gonads.  Since gonads are responsible for producing gametes (ovum and sperms) which are capable of reproducing an entire organism after fertilization, they are regarded as germ cells. Somatic cells on the other hand are not responsible for fertilization. So, if a mutation occurs in germ cells which is known as germline mutation, it will pass on to the off spring while a mutation in somatic cells will be restricted to the individual without being passed on to the next generation.