Question

Difference between phenotype and genotype

Answer 1

Genotype

Phenotype

It designates the genetic constitution of an individual which determines the characters. The individuals of the same genotype interbreed and have the same phenotype if they are present in the same environment. The set of genes present in the cells of an organism is called its genotype. For example, an organism may have the genetic composition RR or Rr or rr.

It designates the external appearance of an individual. The individual of the same phenotype may appear alike but may not inter breed if genetically different. The observable characteristic which is genetically controlled is called phenotype. For Example, RR and Rr are both red, i.e., externally they look the same. This means that they are phenotypically the same. But they carry different genes and are therefore said to differ in genotype. Thus, for one phenotype (say red colour), there can be two gene combinations or genotypes (RR - homozygous and Rr - heterozygous).