keskkonnasõltuvuse

Keskkonnasõltuvus refers to the phenomenon where an organism's phenotype, or observable characteristics, is influenced by its environment. This means that genetic predispositions can manifest differently depending on the external conditions an individual experiences. It is a fundamental concept in biology, explaining the variability observed within populations and the adaptation of species to diverse habitats.

Environmental factors that can influence development include temperature, light availability, nutrient levels, and the presence of other organisms. For instance, a plant's height might be determined by its genetic makeup, but also by the amount of sunlight and water it receives. Similarly, the sex of some reptiles is determined by the temperature during incubation, a clear example of environmental influence on a biological trait.

Understanding keskkonnasõltuvus is crucial for fields like evolutionary biology, ecology, and medicine. It helps explain how organisms cope with changing environments and how diseases might be influenced by lifestyle and external factors. This concept highlights the complex interplay between genes and environment in shaping life.