Genotype
Definition
A genotype is the genetic makeup of an organism in terms of the alleles present. It determines specific traits through the combination of alleles inherited from each parent.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Genotypes are represented by letters, with dominant alleles typically denoted by uppercase letters and recessive alleles by lowercase letters.
- Homozygous genotypes have two identical alleles (e.g., AA or aa), while heterozygous genotypes have two different alleles (e.g., Aa).
- The genotype directly influences the phenotype, which is the observable expression of a trait.
- Punnett squares are tools used to predict the possible genotypes of offspring based on parental genotypes.
- Gregor Mendel's laws of inheritance, including the Law of Segregation and Law of Independent Assortment, describe how genotypes are passed down through generations.
Review Questions
- What is the difference between a homozygous and heterozygous genotype?
- How does a genotype influence an organism's phenotype?
- What tool can be used to predict the possible genotypes of offspring?
"Genotype" appears in:
Related terms
Phenotype: The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism as determined by both its genotype and environmental influences.
Allele: One of two or more alternative forms of a gene that arise by mutation and are found at the same place on a chromosome.
Punnett Square: A grid used to predict the outcome of a particular cross or breeding experiment, showing all possible combinations of maternal and paternal alleles.
