Question

state true/false a recessive trait masks the effect of a dominant trait when an individual carries both the dominant and recessive versions of a trait.

Answer 1

The statement is false. In a heterozygote, the dominant trait masks the effect of the recessive trait. The recessive trait is expressed only when the individual has two recessive alleles.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement, 'a recessive trait masks the effect of a dominant trait when an individual carries both the dominant and recessive versions of a trait', is false. In genetics, the concept of trait dominance is based on Mendel's law of dominance. This law states that in a heterozygote (an individual with one dominant allele and one recessive allele), the dominant trait will conceal or override the presence of the recessive trait. The recessive trait appears “latent” or not expressed when the individual also carries a dominant trait. Therefore, it is the dominant trait that masks the effect of the recessive trait, not the other way around. For the recessive trait to be expressed, the individual needs two copies of the recessive allele.

Learn more about Trait Dominance