Recessive traits are expressed only if both the connected alleles are recessive.
Dominant traits are always expressed when the connected allele is dominant, even if only one copy of the dominant trait exists. Recessive traits are expressed only if both the connected alleles are recessive. If one of the alleles is dominant, then the associated characteristic is less likely to manifest.
Traits, such as skin, hair or eye colour, are determined by genes. Each gene consists of two alleles, one from the mother and the other from the father. These alleles can either be recessive or dominant. In other words, traits are usually expressed when both the alleles are dominant. If some traits are absent or not expressed, but found in the parent, then the allele is said to be recessive. Read on to explore more differences between dominant and recessive traits.
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Difference Between Recessive and Dominant Traits
Dominant traits are always expressed when the connected allele is dominant, even if only one copy exists
Recessive traits are expressed only if both the connected alleles are recessive. If one of the alleles is dominant, then the associated characteristic is less likely to manifest
Dominant allele is denoted by a capital letter
Recessive allele is denoted by a small letter
V-shaped hairline
Almond-shaped eyes
Right handedness
Detached earlobes
Dark hair
Brown eyes
Straight hairline
Round eyes
Left handedness
Attached earlobes
Blond hair, red hair
Blue eyes (can also be a polygenetic trait)