Final answer:
Meristic traits may be quantitative, but unlike certain quantitative traits, they do not have a defined genetic basis. Instead, these are countable features, which can have a wide range of variation and are not necessarily attributable to a single pair of genes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Meristic traits may be quantitative but they do not have a genetic basis. Meristic traits are those that can be counted, like the number of scales on a fish or petals on a flower. These traits can often be measured and have a range, however, they are not necessarily controlled by a single pair of genes or a simple Mendelian pattern. While quantitative traits and meristic traits can sometimes overlap, the key difference is that meristic traits are counts, and quantitative traits can also involve measurements that go beyond counting, such as height or weight, which are often polygenic. The variation in these traits, such as phenotypic shifts in a population, can be due to selective processes, highlighting the influence of genetic factors on traits. Understanding the genetic basis of traits is crucial as it can give insights into trait variation, the degree of inbreeding, and the overall genetic diversity within a population which is important for the survival of species. Furthermore, evaluating whether traits have a genetic basis is essential to understand the evolution of traits within a population over time.