ascribed status
Human height is typically determined by polygenic inheritance, where multiple genes contribute to the phenotype, along with environmental factors. This results in a continuous range of heights in a population. This pattern of inheritance contrasts with Mendelian inheritance, where traits are controlled by a single gene.
Traits that are controlled by many genes working together often display quantitatively varying phenotypes, such as height or weight. These traits tend to be influenced by environmental factors as well as genetic factors, resulting in a continuous range of phenotypic outcomes. This type of inheritance is known as polygenic inheritance.
Yes, many traits are controlled by pairs of factors known as alleles, one inherited from each parent. This is a fundamental principle of genetics known as Mendelian inheritance. The interaction between these pairs of alleles determines the expression of traits in an individual.
In both cases, traits are influenced by multiple genetic factors. Inheritance by multiple alleles involves the presence of more than two alleles for a particular gene, while polygenic inheritance involves the contribution of multiple genes to a single trait. Both types of inheritance result in continuous variation, with traits being influenced by the interaction of multiple genetic factors.
Traits that exhibit non-Mendelian inheritance patterns include traits controlled by multiple genes, traits influenced by environmental factors, traits with incomplete dominance, traits with codominance, and traits linked to the sex chromosomes.
Polygenic inheritance is the least prevalent mode of inheritance because it involves multiple genes contributing to a single trait and is influenced by environmental factors, making it more complex and less common than other simpler modes like Mendelian inheritance.
No, characteristics can be controlled by multiple genes interacting with each other. This is known as polygenic inheritance. Additionally, environmental factors can also influence the expression of these genes, further complicating the determination of specific genetic control.
A non Mendelian trait can be controlled by one gene. When a trait is controlled by one gene it results in genetic disorders. Examples of disorders due to single gene inheritance - Huntington disease, Fragile-X syndrome.
Inheritance and maturation
The things Gregor Mendel called factors are now known to be composed of genes and alleles. Gregor Mendel is referred to as the 'father of genetics'. He is famous for formulating his law of inheritance.
Inheritance of stature height in humans is primarily influenced by multiple genes, with contributions from both parents. It is considered a polygenic trait, meaning that the phenotype results from the interaction of several genes. Additionally, environmental factors can also play a role in determining an individual's final height.
Flies breed a lot faster, so a single researcher can watch the influence over several generations, which really wouldn't be possible on humans. Also, the flies can be kept in an almost entirely controlled environment, making it easier to exclude external factors from causing one or the other.