University:
Michigan State University
Course:
BS 162 | Organismal and Population Biology
Academic year:

2021
Views:

107

Pages:

3
Author:

flugeldarmn7

Variation of Traits Organisms inherit many of their traits from their parents. In a population of organisms, they are all the same species, but they will not all look exactly the same. Individuals in a population will inherit and express a variation of traits that may not match the rest of their group. In a herd of caribou, for example, the expression of traits can include antler size, leg length, coat thickness, and even temperament. A variation of traits can make a difference in how organisms survive. If a caribou inherits traits that help it outrun predators, find food, and survive the winter, it is more likely to breed in the fall and pass on its genetic traits to the next generation. It’s expression of traits has shown a selective advantage. Environmental factors can also affect the expression of traits, affecting the probability of their occurrences in a population. For example, if a caribou breaks an antler, is injured running from predators, or loses weight due to food scarcity, it may not survive or have the energy to compete for females during the breeding season. If it doesn’t breed, it will not pass on its genetic traits to the next generation. So the herd’s traits are influenced by the environment. Thus the variation and distribution of traits in a population depends on both genetic and environmental factors. LS3.B: Variation of Traits - Environmental factors also affect expression of traits, and hence affect the probability of occurrences of traits in a population. Thus the variation and distribution of traits observed depends on both genetic and environmental factors. Performance Expectations Students who demonstrate understanding can: HS-LS3-3. Apply concepts of statistics and probability to explain the variation and distribution of expressed traits in a population. LS3.B Variation of Traits - The Caribou Environmental factors also affect expression of traits, and hence affect the probability of occurrences of traits in a population. Thus the variation and distribution of traits observed depends on both genetic and environmental factors. Herding behavior; a large, social group that works together to fend off predators and protect young. Migrating behavior to move to where the food is available throughout the seasons. Long, branching antlers to defend from predators and compete for mates. The ability to digest lichens. Frostbitten ears. Thick fur to protect from the cold. Mosquito bites. Long legs to run fast and escape predators. Sharp hooves to fend off predators. Variation of Traits - Critical Thinking Study the Variation of Traits of the Caribou Diagram and then use the Venn Diagram below to list the characteristics (traits) of the caribou that are inherited, those that result from individuals’ interactions with the environment, and those that involve both inheritance and the environment. Inherited traits: Traits that involve both inheritance and the environment: Traits that result from interactions with the environment: