Biology – Variation | e-Consult
Variation (1 questions)
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Discontinuous variation is easily categorized into distinct phenotypes, typically controlled by a single gene with two alleles. Continuous variation, on the other hand, shows a range of phenotypes, often influenced by multiple genes and environmental factors. Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | Discontinuous Variation | Continuous Variation |
| Number of alleles involved | Typically one | Multiple |
| Mode of inheritance | Simple Mendelian inheritance | Polygenic inheritance, influenced by environmental factors |
| Phenotypic categories | Distinct, easily classified | A range of phenotypes, no distinct categories |
| Examples | Thumb dominance, blood groups | Height, skin colour, weight |
In essence, discontinuous variation is often a result of a single gene determining a clear-cut outcome, while continuous variation is a result of the combined effects of many genes and environmental influences leading to a gradual change in phenotype.