Mendel's experiments with pea plants revealed several contrasting traits that helped establish the foundation of genetics. Two notable traits he studied are:
Seed Shape
Mendel observed that pea seeds could be either round or wrinkled. The round seeds were dominant, while the wrinkled seeds were recessive. This trait demonstrated how certain characteristics can be inherited in predictable patterns.
Flower Color
Another trait Mendel examined was flower color, which could be purple or white. In this case, purple flowers were dominant over white flowers. This contrast illustrated the concept of dominance in genetic inheritance.
Key Takeaways
- Round seeds are dominant over wrinkled seeds.
- Purple flowers are dominant over white flowers.
These traits helped Mendel formulate his laws of inheritance, laying the groundwork for modern genetics.