What represents the genetic makeup of an organism?

The genetic makeup of an organism is represented by its genotype. The genotype refers to the specific set of genes that an organism carries, which in turn influences its development, traits, and overall biological functions. This genetic information is inherited from the organism's parents and can provide insights into inherited conditions, potential variations, and the organism's likelihood of expressing particular traits.

In contrast, the phenotype refers to the observable characteristics or traits of an organism, such as physical appearance, behavior, and biochemical properties. While the phenotype is influenced by the genotype, it also results from interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Traits and characteristics describe more specific features or qualities of an organism, but they do not convey the underlying genetic information that defines its genotype. Therefore, understanding the genotype is essential for studying inheritance and the fundamental principles of genetics.