How does the environment affect inherited traits? Chapter 3.11 How does the environment affect inherited traits?

Genes vs. Environment Genes control our characteristics. Genes decide what we look like. Genes decide our color of hair, our color of eyes, tallness, shortness etc. HOWEVER, many other things influence genes. All living things need certain things to survive. For example, green plants need the sun to make energy. People need food to grow and live.

Environment and Traits

Environment and Traits This tree in the above picture looks like it grows sideways, but it’s not true. It looks like genes may have caused this awkward position, but the real reason for this are strong winds that cause the tree to move sideways.

Environment and genes ENVIRONMENT and GENES: plants that grow in poor soil can not grow big. If you add some nutrients to the soil, the plant will grow bigger and produce more fruits.

Genetic mutation Mutation Impact Positive (+) Neutral Negative (-) GENETIC MUTATION: is a change in genetic material of an organism.

Mutations on X or Y chromosome If a mutation happens on a sex chromosome (X or Y), then it can be passed on to children. But if it is not on X or Y chromosome, then it will _____ be passed.

CAUSES of MUTATION: some things will cause a mutation CAUSES of MUTATION: some things will cause a mutation. Something that causes a mutation is called ____________. For example, UV light, X-rays and cigarettes are mutagens and can cause abnormal growth. Some chemical can cause cancer. Something that causes cancer is called __________.

Chromosomal mutations:

Checking Concepts: What are two factors that can affect traits?

What causes divi-divi trees to grow sideways?

Would poor nutrition affect the traits or the genes of an organism? ____________ would affect the traits.

What is a mutation? Mutation is a __________________ of an organism.

What are the three types of mutagens?

A green plant was stored in a school closet during the summer vacation A green plant was stored in a school closet during the summer vacation. When students returned to the school in the fall, they found the plant had died. What probably caused the plant to die?

Suppose a divi-divi tree was planted in a location with no wind Suppose a divi-divi tree was planted in a location with no wind. What do you think it would look like?

Fill in blanks: 1. Many of the traits of all living things are controlled by ________________. 2. A _____________________ is a change in genetic material. 3. The environment affects the development of ___________________________. 4. Living things develop normally when conditions in the ___________________ are normal. 5. A mutation can be passed on to offspring it if happens in the ________________.