Arizona State University (ASU) BIO181 General Biology I Exam 1 Practice

A phenotype refers to the observable characteristics or traits of an organism, which are the result of the interaction between its genetic makeup and the environment. This definition encompasses various attributes such as physical appearance, behavior, and physiological properties that can be seen or measured. For instance, a plant's height, flower color, and leaf shape are all part of its phenotype. Understanding this concept is crucial because it highlights how genetic information (genotype) translates into visible traits and how these traits can be influenced by external factors. Therefore, the answer accurately captures the essence of what a phenotype represents in biological terms.