Heritability of a trait can change because
A) genes mutate.
B) new SNPs form.
C) the environment can change.
D) a person can consciously change her or his heritability.
E) the heritability in a family changes with the number of children.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The heritability of a trait refers to the proportion of differences in that trait among individuals that are due to genetic differences. However, environmental factors can also play a role in the expression of that trait. For example, if a trait is strongly influenced by environmental factors, such as nutrition or exposure to toxins, then changes in the environment can lead to changes in the heritability of that trait. This means that even if the underlying genetic factors remain the same, the overall heritability of the trait can change as a result of changes in the environment. Choices A and B are not correct because mutations and new SNPs can lead to changes in genetic variation, but they do not necessarily result in changes in heritability. Choice D is not correct because an individual cannot consciously change their own heritability, although they may be able to change the expression of a trait through behavioral or environmental changes. Choice E is not correct because the number of children in a family does not directly affect the heritability of a trait.

Heritability of a Trait Can Change Because