Genotype

Definition

A genotype refers to the genetic makeup of an organism, specifically the set of genes that it carries.

Related terms

Phenotype:

This is the physical expression or characteristics of that genotype. Using our cake analogy, if genotype is the recipe, then phenotype is the actual baked cake - its taste, texture and appearance.

Homozygous: This term describes when an individual has two copies of the same allele for a trait in their genotype. Like having double amount of chocolate in your cake recipe!

Heterozygous:

This term describes when an individual has two different alleles for a trait in their genotype. Like having one ingredient as chocolate and another as vanilla in your cake recipe!