What is the term for the genetic constitution of an individual, often represented by letters?

• A. Phenotype
• B. Karyotype
• C. Genotype
• D. Hapotype

Answer: (C)

The correct term for the genetic constitution of an individual, represented by letters, is genotype. Genotype refers specifically to the set of alleles an individual has for a particular gene or genes. It encompasses the genetic makeup that determines specific traits or characteristics, which may include dominant and recessive alleles.

In contrast, phenotype describes the observable traits or characteristics of an individual, which result from the interaction between the genotype and the environment. Karyotype refers to the complete set of chromosomes in an individual, typically used to analyze chromosomal structure and number, often to identify genetic disorders. Hapotype, while related to genetics, typically refers to a combination of alleles at multiple loci on the same chromosome that are inherited together, but it is not used to denote the overall genetic constitution of an individual like genotype does. Thus, in this context, genotype is the most accurate term to describe the genetic constitution represented by letters.