Question

With the help of suitable examples, explain why certain traits cannot be passed on to the next generation. What are such traits called?

Answer 1

Acquired traits:

• The acquired trait is the physical feature of an organism that develops because of the influence of the environment.

The reason behind not passing of the acquired traits to the offspring:

• Acquired traits do not get passed to the offspring from its parents as they are not associated with genetic variations.
• No change will occur in the genes of the gametes during the inheritance of acquired traits.
• For example, a kitten that gets lesser foods than other kittens will look thinner and weaker. However, its offspring will be normal depending on the availability of food.