What is a primary feature of heritable changes in a population?

The primary feature of heritable changes in a population is that they can include both genetic and environmental factors. This means that changes in traits can arise through genetic variations that are passed down from generation to generation, while also being influenced by environmental factors that affect the expression of those genes.

In evolutionary biology, it is recognized that while genetics provides the blueprint for traits, the environment plays a significant role in shaping how these traits manifest. For example, a plant's height may be determined genetically, but access to water and sunlight can significantly influence growth. This interplay between genetics and environment is critical for understanding evolution and adaptation, as it allows populations to respond to changing conditions over time.

Heritable changes are not solely about the transmission of physical traits, genetic information can also affect behaviors and physiological processes that contribute to survival and reproduction. This is why understanding both genetic inheritance and environmental influences is essential in studying population changes and evolution.