Difference between acquired traits and inherited traits ?

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Answer

Acquired traits are acquired or attained during the lifetime of an individual. These cannot be passed to the next generation, since these characteristics are due to changes in somatic cells of the body. These changes do not bring about any alteration in the genes of the germ cells of the organism.

When a trait is directed by the reproductive cells of the body, it can be passed on to the next generation. Such a trait is called an inherited trait. Here the genes in the germ cells of the organism are involved.

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Inherited traits: these are the characters transferred from parents. ex: mouth shape.

Aquired traits: these are the habits which are developed by any organisms in response to environment. eg: swimming, driving, etc.

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Acquired Traits

Acquired traits, also known as acquired characteristics, are traits that an organism acquires during its lifetime as a result of environmental influences or experiences. These traits are not inherited from parents and cannot be passed on to offspring. Acquired traits can be acquired through learning, practice, or exposure to certain environmental factors. These traits are typically the result of changes in an organism's behavior, physiology, or morphology.

Examples of Acquired Traits:
- Learning to ride a bicycle
- Developing calluses on hands from manual labor
- Learning to speak a foreign language
- Muscular strength gained through exercise
- Tanning of the skin due to exposure to sunlight

Inherited Traits

Inherited traits, also known as inherited characteristics, are traits that are passed down from parents to offspring through genes. These traits are determined by the genetic material present in the DNA of an organism. Inherited traits are the result of genetic variations and are inherited through the process of reproduction. They are present at birth and remain relatively stable throughout an individual's lifetime.

Examples of Inherited Traits:
- Eye color
- Hair color and texture
- Height
- Blood type
- Genetic disorders or conditions

Differences between Acquired Traits and Inherited Traits:

1. Origin: Acquired traits are acquired during an organism's lifetime, while inherited traits are present at birth and are inherited from parents.

2. Passing on to Offspring: Acquired traits cannot be passed on to offspring, as they are not encoded in an organism's genetic material. Inherited traits, on the other hand, are passed down from parents to offspring through genetic inheritance.

3. Stability: Acquired traits can change throughout an individual's lifetime, while inherited traits remain relatively stable.

4. Environmental Influence: Acquired traits are influenced by environmental factors and experiences. Inherited traits are determined by genetic variations and are not influenced by environmental factors.

5. Scope: Acquired traits are often specific to an individual and can vary among individuals of the same species. Inherited traits, on the other hand, are shared among individuals within a species and can be used to identify common ancestry.

In conclusion, acquired traits are acquired during an organism's lifetime as a result of environmental influences or experiences, while inherited traits are passed down from parents to offspring through genes. Acquired traits are not inherited and can change throughout an individual's lifetime, while inherited traits remain relatively stable and are determined by genetic variations.

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