Genetics Vocabulary

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Mutation

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A change in the DNA sequence that can lead to variations in traits or characteristics in an organism.

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Homozygous

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Having two identical alleles for a particular gene (e.g., TT or tt).

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Heterozygous

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Having two different alleles for a particular gene (e.g., Tt).

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Incomplete Dominance

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A genetic situation where one allele does not completely dominate another, resulting in a blended phenotype (e.g., red and white flowers producing pink flowers).

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Codominance

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A genetic situation where both alleles in a heterozygote are fully expressed, resulting in offspring with a phenotype that is neither dominant nor recessive (e.g., AB blood type).

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Genetic Diversity

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The total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species, which contributes to variations in traits.

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Genome

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All of an organism's genetic material, including all of its genes.

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Phenotype

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The observable physical or biochemical characteristics of an organism, determined by both genetic makeup and environmental influences.

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Genotype

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The genetic constitution of an individual organism, often represented by alleles (e.g., TT, Tt, tt).

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Punnett Square

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A diagram used to predict the outcome of a particular cross or breeding experiment, showing the possible genotypes of offspring.