Question

How is height inherited in humans?

Answer 1

Polygenic inheritance:

1. Polygenic inheritance, also known as multiple gene inheritance or multiple factor inheritance, is defined as inheritance where multiple independent genes have an additive or similar effect on a single quantitative trait.
2. Height is a polygenic trait which is controlled by at least three genes with six alleles.
3. Polygenic inheritance shows continuous variation.
4. There is no distinct alternative like tall and short, rather there is a whole range of possible heights.
5. Environment in which the person grows also influences polygenic inheritance such as health, nutrition, etc.
6. More than 400 genes are linked to variation in height.