Final answer:
Genes and the environment both influence the traits of an individual organism.
Step-by-step explanation:
The traits of an individual organism are influenced by both genes and the environment. Genes provide the basic blueprint for an organism's traits, such as eye color and height. However, environmental factors, such as nutrition, sunlight, and social interactions, can also influence how genes are expressed and the development of certain traits.
For example, an individual's genes may provide the potential for tall height, but if they are malnourished during childhood, their growth may be stunted. Similarly, certain genetic predispositions for behavioral traits, such as intelligence or aggression, may be influenced by environmental factors, such as education or upbringing.
Overall, the interaction between genes and the environment is complex and can vary for different traits and individuals.