The shape of earlobes is one of the most easily observed inherited traits in humans. This simple trait demonstrates how genetic information passes from parents to children and shows the observable variation that exists within human populations.
đŦ Key Concepts
Attached earlobes vs. free-hanging earlobes
Simple trait controlled by one gene
Observable variation in human populations
Inheritance patterns from parents to children
Activity 8.1: Earlobe Study
Observe the earlobe attachment in your family members. Record whether each person has attached or free-hanging earlobes. This simple observation helps demonstrate how traits are inherited from one generation to the next.
Attached Earlobes
Free-hanging Earlobes
Human Diversity Fact!
About 75% of people worldwide have free-hanging earlobes, while 25% have attached earlobes. This variation shows how different populations have different frequencies of inherited traits!
đ¯ Learning Objectives
By studying earlobe inheritance, you'll understand how simple traits are passed from parents to children and recognize the natural variation that exists in human populations.