Which type of gene is located on the numbered (non-sex) chromosomes?

An autosomal gene is one that is located on the non-sex chromosomes, which are also known as autosomes. In humans, there are 22 pairs of autosomes, and one pair of sex chromosomes, the latter determining an individual's sex. Autosomal genes are responsible for a wide array of traits and can be expressed in both males and females equally.

This categorization is vital in genetics, as it helps distinguish traits and diseases that are inherited in a Mendelian fashion from those that are linked to sex chromosomes. Understanding the role of autosomal genes is fundamental in areas such as inheritance patterns, genetic disorders, and population genetics.

The other types of genes mentioned do not pertain specifically to non-sex chromosomes: sex-linked genes are located on sex chromosomes, somatic genes relate to body cells excluding germ cells, and a recessive gene refers to a trait that requires two copies to manifest, which can be located on either type of chromosome.