Key Concepts in Genetics and Evolution

A collection of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to genetics, evolution, and reproductive biology.

Phenotype

The observable characteristics of an organism, resulting from the interaction of its genotype with the environment.

Genotype

The genetic makeup of an organism; the information stored in its DNA.

Phenotypic Plasticity

The ability of individuals with a particular genotype to express different phenotypes based on environmental differences.

Monogenic Traits

Traits that are controlled by a single gene.

Polygenic Traits

Traits that are influenced by multiple genes working together.

Continuity of Variation

A distribution pattern of phenotypes showing a continuous range rather than discrete categories.

Natural Selection

The process whereby organisms better adapted to their environment tend to survive and produce more offspring.

Sexual Selection

A form of natural selection where certain traits increase reproductive success.

Allele

Different forms of a gene that may exist at a specific locus on a chromosome.

Homozygous

An organism with two identical alleles for a particular gene.

Heterozygous

An organism with two different alleles for a particular gene.

Autosomal Dominant Inheritance

A pattern of inheritance where one copy of an altered allele is sufficient to express the trait.

Autosomal Recessive Inheritance

A pattern where two copies of an altered allele are required to express the trait.

Genetic Linkage

The tendency of genes located close to each other on a chromosome to be inherited together.

Gene Dosage

The number of copies of a particular gene present in a genome.

Aneuploidy

An abnormal number of chromosomes in a cell, which can result in developmental issues.

Reproductive Strategies

The biological mechanisms by which organisms produce offspring, potentially enhancing survival and genetic diversity.

Gynandromorphy

An organism possessing both male and female characteristics, common in some species.

Eusociality

A social structure where certain individuals in a colony specialize in reproduction while others help maintain the colony.