phenotypic plasticity

Phenotypic plasticity refers to the ability of an organism with a single genotype to exhibit different phenotypes in response to varying environmental conditions. This means that while an organism inherits a specific set of genes (genotype), its observable characteristics (phenotype) can change based on environmental influences.12

These variations can manifest in physical appearance, behavior, or other measurable traits. For instance, the same genotype might lead to different sizes or colors depending on factors like food availability or climate. This adaptability is crucial for survival, as it allows organisms to better suit their current environments, a concept central to natural selection. However, not all inherited potentials are expressed, as some genes may be latent or inhibited.32