Fænotype

A fænotype is the set of observable characteristics of an organism, arising from the interaction of its genotype with the environment. The term corresponds to the English "phenotype" and is used in Danish and related languages.

The phenotype encompasses morphological traits (such as height or leaf shape), physiological traits (like metabolism, enzyme activity, or blood glucose levels), and behavioral traits (such as mating displays or foraging patterns). The phenotype results from the combined effects of many genes and environmental factors, and it can change over the organism's life course due to development, aging, and environmental variation.

The genotype provides the potential for a set of phenotypes, but expression is modulated by context. Concepts such as heritability, penetrance, and expressivity describe how genetic variation is translated into observable differences. Phenotypic plasticity refers to changes in phenotype in response to environmental conditions.

Phenotyping methods range from simple observation to high-throughput technologies. Traditional measurements are complemented by imaging, spectroscopy, biochemical assays, and molecular profiling to capture anatomical, physiological, and biochemical traits. Some phenotypes are endophenotypes or intermediate traits linked to diseases.

Fænotype is central to many fields, including plant and animal breeding, medicine, and evolutionary biology. It informs selection decisions, diagnoses, and the study of adaptation and development.