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Phenotypic plasticity describes a scenario where individuals with identical genotypes may have different phenotypes if they live in different environments.

1) True
2) False

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Phenotypic plasticity is the true phenomenon where individuals with the same genotype can have different phenotypes in different environments. This demonstrates the significant influence of environmental factors on an organism's phenotype, alongside genetic factors.It is true.

Step-by-step explanation:

Phenotypic plasticity refers to the ability of an organism with a given genotype to change its phenotype in response to changes in the environment. This statement is True, as identical genotypes can produce different phenotypes under different environmental conditions. Phenotypic plasticity is a key concept in understanding how organisms adapt and survive in varying environments. It illustrates that while genotypic changes can lead to phenotypic differences, the environment can also play a significant role in determining an organism's phenotype. For example, two plants with the same genetic makeup may exhibit different physical characteristics like size or leaf color due to differences in soil nutrients, sunlight, water availability, or other environmental factors.

Understanding this concept is crucial in biology, especially in the fields of population genetics, evolution, and ecology. It highlights the importance of both genetic and environmental factors in shaping the characteristics of a population. Natural selection and other evolutionary processes can then act on these variations, influencing the genetic makeup of future generations.

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