The Phenotype Monster, 3D Illustration Stock Image

If environmental influences can cause a strong variability in the appearance of an individual, one speaks of a high phenotypic plasticity or a wide range or modification, but if the phenotype is largely predetermined by its genotype, this indicates low plasticity. The concept of phenotypic plasticity describes the extent to which an organism`s phenotype is predetermined by its genotype. A high plasticity value means that environmental influences have a strong impact on the individually developing phenotype. If the plasticity is low, the phenotype can be reliably predicted from the genotype, regardless of special environmental conditions during development. High plasticity can be observed using the example of the larvae of two newts: If these larvae detect the presence of predators such as dragonfly larvae, the head and tail enlarge in relation to the body and the skin becomes darker pigmented. Larvae with these characteristics have a better chance of survival than predators, but grow more slowly than other phenotypes. Phenotypic changes due to environmental influences are called modifications. For example, genetically identical plants e.g. cuttings can develop completely different growth forms at different locations.