Inherited Traits & Variation Explorer

Why do you look like your parents? Explore which traits are inherited through genes, which are learned through experience, and which come from the environment.

Explore Traits

Click any trait card to learn if it is inherited, learned, or environmental.

Pick an organism

Inherited — from genes
Learned — from experience
Environmental — from surroundings

Traits Reference

Inherited Traits

Inherited traits come from your parents through genes. You are born with them.

  • Eye color
  • Hair texture
  • Blood type
  • Dimples

Learned Traits

Learned traits come from experience and practice. They can change.

  • Reading ability
  • Riding a bike
  • Language spoken
  • Musical skill

Environmental Traits

Environmental traits are caused by surroundings and conditions.

  • Sun tan
  • Scars
  • Stunted growth (poor nutrition)
  • Calluses