Phenotypic heterogeneity
Phenotypic heterogeneity (pronunciation: /ˌfiːnəˈtaɪpɪk ˌhɛtərəʊdʒɪˈniːɪti/) refers to the variation in phenotypes among individual organisms bearing identical genotypes in a population. This concept is a fundamental aspect of genetics and evolutionary biology.
Etymology
The term "phenotypic heterogeneity" is derived from the Greek words "phainein" (to show), "typos" (type), and "heteros" (other). It essentially means "different types shown", referring to the different physical characteristics or traits that can be observed in organisms with the same genetic makeup.
Overview
Phenotypic heterogeneity can occur due to a variety of factors, including environmental influences, epigenetic modifications, and stochastic (random) processes. It plays a crucial role in the survival and evolution of species, as it allows for a diverse range of traits within a population, increasing the chances of survival under changing environmental conditions.
Related Terms
- Genotype: The genetic makeup of an organism.
- Phenotype: The observable physical properties of an organism.
- Epigenetics: The study of changes in organisms caused by modification of gene expression rather than alteration of the genetic code itself.
- Stochastic: Randomly determined; having a random probability distribution or pattern that may be analyzed statistically but may not be predicted precisely.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phenotypic heterogeneity
- Wikipedia's article - Phenotypic heterogeneity
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