Final answer:
Many phenotypic characteristics, like the leaves of a tree or human skin color and height, result from a mix of heredity and environment. Factors such as sun exposure can alter phenotypes, and traits like skin color are influenced by multiple genes in a process known as polygenic inheritance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Phenotypic Characteristics: Heredity and Environment
Yes, many phenotypic characters do indeed result from a combination of heredity and environment. For instance, the leaves of a tree with the same genotype can vary in size, shape, and color due to environmental influences. Phenotypes such as skin color and height in humans are examples of polygenic characteristics, wherein multiple genes contribute to the outcome.
Environmental Influence on Phenotype
Environmental factors, such as sun exposure and food availability, significantly influence the expression of genes in an individual's phenotype. A practical example is skin color, which can become darker with more sun exposure. Similarly, the sex of some reptiles is determined by the temperature at which their eggs are incubated, showcasing temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD).
Polygenic Inheritance
Polygenic inheritance involves multiple genes affecting a single characteristic, such as human skin color or height, where at least three genes impact the phenotype. These genes can operate sequentially or in a synergistic manner, collectively influencing the development of complex traits.