Fenotypie

Fenotypie refers to the set of observable characteristics of an organism that arise from the interaction of its genetic makeup (genotype) with environmental conditions. It encompasses morphology, development, physiology, biochemistry, and behavior. The phenotype is what can be measured or observed directly in an individual.

The phenotype is dynamic and can change across life stages or in response to factors such as nutrition, temperature, pathogens, or social environment. Epigenetic mechanisms can also influence phenotypic expression without altering the underlying DNA sequence, adding a layer of regulation between genotype and phenotype.

Phenotyping involves the systematic measurement of traits using a variety of methods, from straightforward measurements like height or weight to imaging, spectroscopy, biochemical assays, and behavioral observations. In research and breeding, phenotypic data are often collected alongside genotypic information to understand trait variation and to map genetic influences on traits.

The relationship between genotype and phenotype is central to genetics. The same genotype may express differently in different environments, and similar phenotypes can sometimes arise from different genetic backgrounds (convergent traits). Heritability estimates quantify the proportion of phenotypic variation within a population that is attributable to genetic differences.

Applications of phenotypic analysis span medicine, agriculture, and evolutionary biology. Examples include disease-related clinical phenotypes, crop yield or flowering time, and variations in physiological traits such as blood pressure. Related concepts include the phenome (the complete set of phenotypes) and phenotypic plasticity (the ability of a genotype to produce different phenotypes in response to the environment).