What is the genetic makeup of an organism referred to as?

The genetic makeup of an organism is known as its genotype. This term refers specifically to the collection of genes that an organism possesses, which can influence various characteristics and traits. The genotype serves as the blueprint for the potential physical, biochemical, and physiological traits of an organism, though the expression of these traits can also be influenced by environmental factors.

In contrast, the phenotype encompasses the observable characteristics or traits, such as color, size, and behavior, which arise as a result of both genetic and environmental interactions. Chromosomes are structures within cells that contain the genetic material and are made up of DNA, but they do not directly refer to the overall genetic makeup of an organism. A trait is a specific characteristic or feature resulting from the genotype, but again, it does not describe the complete genetic makeup itself. Thus, understanding these distinctions clarifies why genotype is the most accurate term to describe an organism's genetic composition.