According to studies of non-twin relatives, the average heritability coefficient for most traits is about
Group of answer choices
60%.
80%.
40%.
20%.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is 60%.
Heritability is a measure of how much of the variation in a particular trait can be attributed to genetic factors, as opposed to environmental influences. In studies of non-twin relatives, such as siblings, parents, and extended family members, the average heritability coefficient for most traits is about 60%. This means that approximately 60% of the variation in a given trait can be explained by genetic differences among individuals, while the remaining 40% is due to environmental factors or interactions between genetics and the environment.
It is important to note that heritability is not a fixed number but rather a population estimate. It does not mean that 60% of an individual’s traits are determined by their genes; rather, it refers to the degree of variation within a population that can be attributed to genetic differences. For example, in a population of people with diverse backgrounds, a trait like height might have a heritability of 60%, meaning that, on average, 60% of the differences in height among individuals can be explained by genetic differences.
The heritability of different traits can vary significantly. Some traits, such as eye color or blood type, have high heritability because they are determined by relatively few genes. Other traits, such as intelligence, personality, or susceptibility to certain diseases, are influenced by many genetic and environmental factors, leading to a more moderate heritability estimate.
Heritability estimates can also be influenced by factors like the environment in which the study is conducted. For instance, in a population with little environmental variation, the heritability of a trait might appear higher because environmental differences are minimized. Conversely, in a population with significant environmental variation, heritability might appear lower due to the greater impact of the environment.