Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Phenotypes refer to the observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism, which are determined by its genotype and influenced by environmental factors. They can include traits such as eye color, height, or blood type.
Related terms
Genotype: The genetic makeup of an organism, which determines its phenotype.
Environmental factors: External conditions or influences that can affect an organism's phenotype.
Genetic variation: Differences in genotypes and phenotypes within a population.