In 5-6 sentences explain what information you understand the best. Explain the difference between genotype and phenotype. What strategy helped you remember genotype vs phenotype? How can mutations be harmful or beneficial (explain)?
I understand the concept of genotype better than phenotype. Genotype refers to the genetic information contained within an organism's DNA, encompassing all the genetic traits inherited from parents. On the other hand, phenotype refers to the physical characteristics and traits that are actually expressed in an organism. To remember the difference between genotype and phenotype, I used the mnemonic "Genotype is the Genetic code, Phenotype is the Physical appearance."
Mutations can be harmful if they disrupt normal gene function, leading to genetic disorders or diseases. For example, mutations in tumor suppressor genes can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer. However, mutations can also be beneficial in certain circumstances. Beneficial mutations can confer advantages such as increased resistance to diseases or environmental stressors, helping an organism to survive and reproduce more successfully. Ultimately, whether a mutation is harmful or beneficial depends on its effects on an organism's fitness in its environment.