Inherited Traits vs. Acquired Traits 7-2.7 Distinguish between inherited traits and those acquired from environmental factors

Inherited Trait Genetically determined characteristic that distinguishes one organism from another organism Example Color of flowers, shape of seeds, height of plants Eye color, blood type, skin color in humans

Acquired Traits Physical characteristics may be influenced by the environment Examples of environmental factors that can alter phenotype Temperature Nutrients Injuries Disease Exposure to sun Living conditions

Temperature May affect # or size of leaves in plants Or, color or amount of fur or thickness of skin in animals

Nutrients May affect growth or seed production of plants OR, weight or height in animals

Injuries May cause scarring in plants and animals

Disease May affect the number of branches in plants OR body shape in animals

Exposure to Sun May affect the color of leaves in plants OR skin changes in animals

Living conditions May affect the leaves, roots, and height in plants OR condition of fur, skin, or teeth in animals