Phenotypic Traits

Phenotypic traits are the observable characteristics of an organism, shaped by its genetic makeup and environmental influences. These traits can include anything from physical features, like height and eye color, to behavioral aspects, such as intelligence or temperament. Essentially, the phenotype is how the genetic code (genotype) is expressed in the real world. For example, a person may have genes for tallness, but if they don’t get proper nutrition, they may not grow as tall as their genetic potential allows. Thus, phenotypic traits provide insight into how genetics and environment work together to shape living beings.