Which factor plays a significant role in the determination of many phenotypes?

Environmental factors play a significant role in the determination of many phenotypes because they can influence the expression of genes in various ways. Phenotypes are the observable traits or characteristics of an organism, and they are the result of both genetic makeup and environmental influences.

For example, the availability of nutrients, temperature, humidity, and exposure to toxins can all affect how genes are expressed, sometimes enhancing or suppressing certain traits. The concept of phenotypic plasticity highlights how individuals with the same genetic background can exhibit different characteristics when exposed to varying environmental conditions.

While genetics provides the potential for certain traits, it is the interaction with environmental factors that often shapes the final expression of those traits, demonstrating that phenotype is a product of both heredity and environment, rather than genetics alone or solely random mutations.