Trait
Trait (trayt)
A trait (pronounced: trayt) is a specific characteristic of an organism. Traits can be physical, such as hair color or leaf shape, or they can be behavioral, such as nesting in birds and hibernation in bears. Traits typically result from the combined action of several genes, though they can also be influenced by environment.
Etymology
The term "trait" is derived from the Latin word "tractus," which means "drawn out." It was first used in this context in the early 20th century to describe a distinguishing characteristic or quality, especially of one's personal nature.
Related Terms
- Phenotype: The physical expression, or characteristics, of an organism's genetic code. Traits are part of an organism's phenotype.
- Genotype: The genetic makeup of an organism. This determines the potential traits that an organism can have.
- Allele: A variant form of a gene. Different alleles can lead to different traits.
- Dominant Trait: A trait that will appear in the offspring if one of the parents contributes it.
- Recessive Trait: A trait that must be contributed by both parents in order to appear in the offspring.
- Heredity: The passing on of traits from parents to their offspring, either through asexual reproduction or sexual reproduction.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Trait
- Wikipedia's article - Trait
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