Question

Explain how the same genotype can result in multiple phenotypes under different environmental conditions. (please use the terms in the answer)

Gene expression

Phenotypic plasticity

Answer 1

The same genotype is capable of developing different phenotypes depending on the environmental conditions. This ability of a genotype to give rise to more than one phenotypes is known as phenotype plasticity. The reason for the development of different phenotypes from the same genotype is the difference in the gene expression in different environments. Environment affects the how a gene is expressed in an individual. The phenotypic plasticity allows for an organism to better adapt to his environental conditions. The gene-environment interaction play a vital role in the expression of a genotype. And hence, a single genotype is capable of developing different phenotypes in different organisms.