Inheritance: Genotype and Phenotype

Genotypes refer to the specific set of genes an organism carries. These genes can either be dominant or recessive.
Phenotypes, on the other hand, are the physical and observable traits or characteristics expressed by these genes – such as eye colour, hair type and height.
Each gene denotes a specific trait, and every individual possesses a pair of genes for each trait. These genetic pairs come from each of the parents.
A dominant gene can overshadow a recessive gene. For example, if an individual has both a dominant and a recessive gene for eye color, the dominant gene will determine the color of the person’s eyes.
The recessive genes will only exhibit if the pair of genes are both recessive.
Genotypes may influence phenotypes, but the environment may also have a significant impact. For instance, diet and exercise can influence a person’s height.
Genetic variations can be caused by mutations, sexual reproduction, or genetic crossing-over. These variations are essential for the survival and evolution of a species.
To predict the likelihood of individual characteristics being inherited, genetic diagrams, Punnett squares and family pedigree diagrams can be utilised.
Hereditary diseases and disorders can be passed down through families via recessive or dominant genes. For instance, cystic fibrosis is a recessive disorder, while Huntington’s disease is dominant.
When studying inheritance, it’s important to understand the function and structure of DNA and chromosomes, as well as the process of meiosis, which is how sex cells are produced.
Genetic engineering and selective breeding are two modern applications of our understanding of inheritance and genetic variation. These techniques can be used for a variety of purposes, including improving crop yields and breeding animals with desirable traits.