Colorblindness is an example of which type of genetic mutation?

Colorblindness is primarily classified as a sex-linked genetic mutation, specifically linked to the X chromosome. This means that the genes responsible for the condition are located on the X chromosome, which is one of the two sex chromosomes in humans (the other being the Y chromosome). Since males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY), having a single mutated copy of the gene on their X chromosome is enough for them to express colorblindness. In contrast, females have two X chromosomes (XX) and would need mutations on both X chromosomes to be affected, making colorblindness more common among males.

Other types of mutations, such as autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant, refer to genes located on non-sex chromosomes (autosomes). Mitochondrial mutations relate to genes found in the mitochondria, which are inherited from the mother and do not pertain to color vision deficiencies. Therefore, colorblindness being linked to a genetic trait on the X chromosome establishes it firmly as a sex-linked condition.