What does the term genotype refer to?

The term genotype specifically refers to the genetic make-up of an organism, encompassing the specific alleles and genes that an individual possesses. This genetic composition ultimately influences various traits, including physical characteristics and behaviors, although it is distinct from the phenotype, which describes the observable traits. Understanding genotype is essential in fields such as plant and animal breeding, genetics, and conservation biology since it provides insight into hereditary characteristics and potential variations within a population.

While other choices touch on important biological concepts, they do not define genotype. For instance, the physical appearance of an organism relates to its phenotype, environmental influences speak to the concept of epigenetics, and evolutionary lineage pertains more to the concept of phylogeny. Each of these elements plays a role in understanding biodiversity and inheritance but does not directly define genotype itself.