Question

vi. short answer questions

1. how can both genes and the environment affect the traits seen in the chernobyl dogs?

Explanation:

Genes provide the genetic blueprint for traits. In Chernobyl dogs, mutations from radiation (environmental factor) can alter genes, affecting traits like appearance or health. The environment (radiation, diet, living conditions) also directly influences traits—e.g., radiation-induced mutations, or malnutrition affecting growth. Genes and environment interact: genetic predispositions (e.g., DNA repair genes) can influence how the environment (radiation) impacts traits, and the environment can trigger gene expression changes (epigenetics) or mutations.

Answer:

• Genetic Influence: Genes carry the hereditary information that determines basic traits (e.g., coat color, body structure) in Chernobyl dogs. Radiation - induced mutations (from the Chernobyl disaster environment) can alter genes, leading to new or modified traits (e.g., increased cancer risk, abnormal physical features).
• Environmental Influence: The environment (radiation, food availability, climate) directly shapes traits. Radiation can cause DNA damage (mutations) or epigenetic changes (affecting gene expression without altering DNA sequence). Poor nutrition due to post - disaster resource scarcity can stunt growth, and radiation - contaminated habitats can increase disease susceptibility.
• Interaction: Genes and environment interact. For example, a dog’s genetic ability to repair DNA (a gene - based trait) influences how severely radiation (environment) damages its genome. Conversely, environmental stress (like radiation) can activate or silence genes (e.g., genes related to stress response), modifying traits.