The distinction between multifactorial and polygenic traits is that
A) polygenic traits are caused by more than one gene, and multifactorial traits are caused by one or more genes as well as environmental influences.
B) multifactorial traits are not genetic and polygenic traits are.
C) the genetic component can be determined for polygenic traits but not for multifactorial traits.
D) polygenic traits are caused by more than one gene and multifactorial traits are caused by only one gene.
E) the phenotype of a multifactorial trait cannot change, and that of a polygenic trait can.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Multifactorial traits are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, whereas polygenic traits are determined by the combined effect of multiple genes. Therefore, both choices must be considered for multifactorial traits, while polygenic traits only involve multiple genes.

The Distinction Between Multifactorial and Polygenic Traits Is That