What is the difference between genotypes and phenotypes?

The distinction between genotypes and phenotypes is fundamental in genetics. Genotypes refer specifically to the genetic makeup of an individual, encompassing the alleles inherited from both parents. This genetic blueprint determines potential traits but does not always express those traits visibly.

Phenotypes, on the other hand, are the observable characteristics or traits of an individual that result from the interaction of the genotype with the environment. These traits can include physical appearances, behaviors, and even physiological characteristics.

Understanding this ratio of genotype to phenotype is crucial in fields like genetics and nursing, where recognizing how genetic predispositions can manifest as specific traits informs patient care, disease risk assessments, and personalized treatment plans. The correct choice emphasizes the relationship in which the genotype serves as a foundation for the phenotype, elucidating the connection between the underlying genetic structure and expressed traits.