1. Human Genetics: Dominant & Recessive Traits

2. Human Genetics: Dominant & Recessive Traits
The physical characteristics below are common genetic traits inherited from one generation to the next:
Free vs. Attached Earlobes
Straight vs. Curved Thumbs
Bent vs. Straight Pinky
With vs. Without White Forelock
Review the following slides that contain:
Definition and images of each genetic trait
Identification of the Dominant / Recessive trait

3. Free vs. Attached Earlobes
Free earlobes (dominant trait) hang below the point of attachment to the head. 
Attached ear lobes (recessive trait) are attached directly to the side of the head.

4. Straight vs. Curved Thumbs
Straight thumbs (dominant trait) can be seen as nearly a straight line and may contain a slight arch when viewed from the side as in the illustrations. 
Curved thumbs (recessive trait) can be seen as part of a circle.

5. Bent vs. Straight Pinky
Bent pinky (dominant trait) vs. Straight pinky (recessive trait):
Hold your hands together as if you are covering your face.
If the tips of the pinkies (or baby fingers) point away from one another, the pinkies are bent (dominant trait).

6. With vs. Without White Forelock
A White Forelock (dominant trait) is a patch of white hair, usually located at the hairline just above the forehead. The photo to the left clearly shows an exaggerated white forelock.
No White Forelock is the recessive trait.