Related Words

Genetic Variation: A phenotypic variance of a trait in a population attributed to genetic heterogeneity.

Genetic Diversity: The genetic variation that occurs within a population or species. For example, there are several different colour dog whelk shells and ochre sea stars. See also biodiversity; compare ecosyst . . . View Full Definition

Molecular Genetics: The study of macromolecules important in biological inheritance.

Microbial Genetics: The study of genes and gene function in bacteria, archaea, and other microorganisms. Often used in research in the fields of bioremediation, alternative energy, and disease prevention.

Ontogenetic: Pertaining to the development of the individual.

Genetics: The study of the structure and function of genes and the transmission of genes from parents to offspring.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO): A term, currently used most often in international trade discussions, that designates crops that carry new traits that have been inserted through advanced genetic engineering methods (e.g., . . . View Full Definition

Additive Genetic Effects: When the combined effects of alleles at different loci are equal to the sum of their individual effects.

Genetic Testing: Analyzing an individual's genetic material to determine predisposition to a particular health condition or to confirm a diagnosis of genetic disease.

Genetic-Based Discrimination: The practice of requesting or requiring genetic testing information during the hiring process or using genetic testing information to base any other employment decisions or actions.