Non-mendelian genetics

Science

Definition

Non-Mendelian genetics describes inheritance patterns that do not follow Mendel's simple dominant-recessive rules. These include incomplete dominance, codominance, multiple alleles, polygenic traits, sex-linked inheritance, and epistasis.

Examples

  • Incomplete dominance in snapdragon flowers where red × white produces pink
  • Codominance in AB blood type where both A and B alleles are fully expressed
  • Red-green color blindness as a sex-linked recessive trait more common in males

Related Terms

Mendelian genetics Punnett squares Dominant and recessive traits Gene regulation

Study This Concept

Practice non-Mendelian genetics with free review games in these units:

AP Biology Unit 5: Heredity