BIO120H1 Study Guide - Final Guide: Palisade Cell, Phenotypic Plasticity, Leaf
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BIO120H1 Full Course Notes
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Document Summary
Phenotypic plasticity: concept used to describe degree to which given genotype can alter phenotypic expression in order to acclimate to surroundings; trait specific. Ability of one genotype to produce different phenotypes in different environments. Gene expression and fitness dependent on environment, ability to respond to environmental conditions in a way that will increase fitness important factor in evolution. Individuals that can exploit appropriate combination of phenotype and environment will gain highest fitness; can be achieved by altering environment or phenotype. Acclimation: altering of phenotype, occurs in individuals able to modify phenotype in response to environmental variation in a manner that improves fitness. Phenotypic plasticity expressed as discrete alternate types or continuum. Reaction norm: relationship between environment and trait in question when phenotypic plasticity expresses itself in continuum. Humans: production of melanin in response to bright sunshine (tanning) Absorbs uv rays, protects tissues; individuals with high capacity to tan have high phenotypic plasticity in trait.
