Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
polygeny
Noun
/ˌpɒl.ɪˈdʒɛn.i/
Definition
The theory that a particular trait or characteristic can arise from multiple genes in different individuals of a species.
Examples
- Many traits in humans, such as skin color and height, are influenced by polygeny.
- Researchers study polygeny to better understand genetic diversity in populations.
Meaning
In biology, polygeny refers to the concept that a single observable trait is influenced by multiple genes, leading to variations in that trait among individuals.
Synonyms
- Multifactorial inheritance
- Polygenic inheritance