Question

Tabulate two distinguishing features between acquired traits and inherited traits with one example of each.

Answer 1

Acquired traits

1. A trait (or characteristic) of an organism which is 'not inherited' but develops in response to the environment is called an acquired trait.

2. The acquired traits of an organism cannot be passed on to its future generations. e.g., 'low weight' of beetle. 'cut tail' of a mouse.

Inherited traits

1. A trait (or characteristic) of an organism which is caused by a change in its genes (or DNA) is called an inherited trait.

2. The inherited traits of an organism are passed on to its future generations. e.g., 'red colour of beetles, fur coat of guinea pigs.