Mutations can occur in either cell type. If a gene is altered in a germ cell, the mutation is termed a germinal mutation . Because germ cells give rise to gametes, some gamete s will carry the mutation and it will be passed on to the next generation when the individual successfully mates. Typically germinal mutations are not expressed in the individual containing the mutation.
Somatic cells give rise to all non-germline tissues.
Mutations in somatic cells are called somatic mutations . Because they do not occur in cells that give rise to gametes, the mutation is not passed along to the next generation by sexual means. To maintain this mutation, the individual containing the mutation must be cloned. Two example of somatic clones are navel oranges and red delicious apples. Horticulturists first observed the mutants.