Continuous variation

Definition

Continuous variation involves a range of small differences in a shared trait across a population. Traits showing continuous variation are often influenced by multiple genes and environmental factors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Traits like height, skin color, and weight typically exhibit continuous variation.
2. Continuous variation results from the combined effect of many genes (polygenic inheritance).
3. Environmental factors can significantly influence traits with continuous variation.
4. Unlike discrete traits, continuous traits do not fall into distinct categories but rather form a spectrum.
5. Statistical measures such as mean and standard deviation are often used to describe populations exhibiting continuous variation.

Review Questions

• What is an example of a trait that shows continuous variation?
• How does polygenic inheritance contribute to continuous variation?
• Why don't traits with continuous variation fall into distinct categories?

Related terms

Polygenic Inheritance: Involves multiple genes contributing to the phenotype of a single trait.

Discrete Variation: Characterized by distinct and separate phenotypes in the population.

Environmental Influence: Non-genetic factors that can affect the expression of traits.