Heredity Vocabulary | TGHS Biology Honors G9 25-26

Heredity

The passing of traits from parents to offspring through genes.

Genetics

The study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics.

Chromosomes

Structures within cells that contain DNA and carry genetic information.

Genes

Segments of DNA that contain the instructions for the development of traits.

Alleles

Different versions of a gene that can exist at a specific locus on a chromosome.

Gametes

Reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) that carry half the genetic information of an organism.

Self-pollination

The process by which pollen from the same flower fertilizes its own ovules.

Cross-pollination

The transfer of pollen from the flower of one plant to the flower of another plant.

True (Pure) breeding

Organisms that, when mated, produce offspring that are identical to themselves for a specific trait.

Dominant allele

An allele that expresses its trait even when only one copy is present in the genotype.

Recessive allele

An allele that expresses its trait only when two copies are present in the genotype.

Homozygous

Having two identical alleles for a specific gene.

Heterozygous (hybrid)

Having two different alleles for a specific gene.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an organism, represented by the alleles it possesses.

Phenotype

The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism, determined by its genotype.