inherited character

biology

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June 29, 2026

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Inherited character, in biology, refers to traits passed down from parents to offspring through genes. These are distinct from acquired characters, which develop during an organism's lifetime in response to the environment.213

The principles of inherited character were first formulated by Gregor Mendel and are known as Mendelian inheritance. Mendel's work established that traits are passed down as distinct units, or genes, which separate during reproduction and can be inherited independently of each other. Some genes are dominant, meaning they mask the effect of other genes (recessive).42

The physical basis of heredity is DNA, which makes up genes located on chromosomes. While the genotype (inherited genes) sets the broad limits for an organism's traits, the phenotype (outward appearance and development) is a result of complex interactions between genes and the environment.51

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allele
Most traits are determined by more than two alleles. Multiple forms of the allele may exist, though only two will attach to the designated gene site during meiosis. Also, some traits are controlled by two or more gene sites. Both possibilities multiply the number of alleles…
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Most traits are determined by more than two alleles. Multiple forms of the allele may exist, though only two will attach to the designated gene site during meiosis. Also, some traits are controlled by two or more gene sites. Both possibilities multiply the number of alleles…
Read More

character
…response to the environment; an inherited character is produced by genes transmitted from parent to offspring (their expressions are often modified by environmental conditions).
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…response to the environment; an inherited character is produced by genes transmitted from parent to offspring (their expressions are often modified by environmental conditions).
Read More