Question:
Tabulate two distinguishing features between acquired traits and inherited traits with one example of each.
Solution:
Acquired traits
- A trait (or characteristic) of an organism which is 'not inherited' but develops in response to the environment is called an acquired trait.
- The acquired traits of an organism cannot be passed on to its future generations. e.g., 'low weight' of beetle. 'cut tail' of a mouse.
Inherited traits
- A trait (or characteristic) of an organism which is caused by a change in its genes (or DNA) is called an inherited trait.
- The inherited traits of an organism are passed on to its future generations. e.g., 'red colour of beetles, fur coat of guinea pigs.