Acquired Trait vs Inherited Trait — Difference (with Table & FAQs)
Acquired Trait vs Inherited Trait compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 9 Biology, free and no sign-up.
TL;DR: Acquired Trait vs Inherited Trait compared side by side — a 6-row comparison table, 4 key points and 3 exam FAQs. Class 9 Biology, free and no sign-up…
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
The main difference between Acquired Trait and Inherited Trait: An acquired trait is a characteristic developed during an organism's lifetime due to environmental factors or practice, while an inherited trait is passed
Acquired Trait vs Inherited Trait — Comparison Table
| Basis | Acquired Trait | Inherited Trait |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Developed during lifetime from environment | Inherited from parents through DNA |
| Inheritance | Cannot be passed to offspring | Passed to offspring through genes |
| Examples | Tan skin, muscle size, language spoken | Eye color, blood type, height potential |
| Development | Changes during lifetime | Present from birth or early development |
| Reversibility | Can be changed or reversed | Cannot be changed without genetic modification |
| Time of Appearance | Appears after birth with experience | Present at or soon after birth |
Key Points
- Acquired traits result from interaction with environment while inherited traits come from genes
- The distinction between acquired and inherited traits is important in understanding evolution and inheritance
- Many traits in humans are influenced by both inherited and acquired factors
- Lamarck's theory that acquired traits can be inherited has been disproven by modern science
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an acquired and an inherited trait?
An inherited trait is passed from parents through the genes and is present in the reproductive cells. An acquired trait develops during an individual's lifetime as a result of environment, use or experience, and is not carried in the genes.
Can an acquired trait be passed to offspring?
No. Acquired traits change the body cells but not the genes in the reproductive cells, so they are not passed on. This is why the children of a weightlifter are not born with larger muscles.
Give examples of each.
Inherited: eye colour, blood group, natural hair type. Acquired: the ability to speak a particular language, a scar, muscle built by exercise, or weight gained through diet.