Genetics Basics

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Genotype

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The specific genetic makeup of an individual or organism, including all the genes they possess.

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Phenotype

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The set of observable characteristics of an individual resulting from the interaction of its genotype with the environment.

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Allele

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One of two or more alternative forms of a gene that arise by mutation and are found at the same place on a chromosome.

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Punnett Square

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A visual representation used in genetics to predict the possible genotypes and phenotypes of offspring from a cross between two parents.

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DNA

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A self-replicating material that is present in nearly all living organisms as the main constituent of chromosomes. It is the carrier of genetic information.

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Gene

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A unit of heredity which is transferred from a parent to offspring and is held to determine some characteristic of the offspring.

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Chromosome

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A threadlike structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.

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Heredity

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The passing on of physical or mental characteristics genetically from one generation to another.

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Heterozygous

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An individual possesses two different alleles (versions) of a particular gene at the same location on homologous chromosomes.

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Homozygous

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Having two identical alleles (versions) of a gene.