What is a phenotype?

A phenotype refers to the observable physical and physiological characteristics of an organism, which can include traits such as size, color, shape, and behavior. These characteristics are influenced both by the organism's genetic makeup (genotype) and environmental factors. Understanding that the phenotype encompasses a wide range of possible traits presented by an organism is fundamental in the study of genetics, as it connects genetic information to actual biological expression. This distinction highlights the importance of both genetics and environmental influence in shaping how an organism ultimately appears and functions in its environment.