gonosome

A gonosome is a sex chromosome that differs from an ordinary autosome in form, size, or behavior.

The human sex chromosomes are a typical pair of gonosomes. The X chromosome is present in the ovum, while either X or Y chromosomes can be present in sperm.

The chromosomes which determine the sex (maleness or femaleness) of an individual in sexually producing organisms are called sex chromosomes or gonosomes or idiosomes. In humans an individual whose cells contain XX chromosomes (homo or isogametic) becomes a female, while one whose cells contains XY chromosomes (heterogametic) becomes a male.