Which term describes traits that involve numerous genes working together?

The term that describes traits involving numerous genes working together is polygenic traits. These traits arise from the cumulative effects of multiple genes, often located on different chromosomes. Each gene contributes a small amount to the overall phenotype (the observable characteristics), leading to a wide range of variations in the traits.

Polygenic inheritance is responsible for many common traits in organisms, such as height, skin color, and even some aspects of behavior. This contrasts with monogenic traits, which are influenced by a single gene. Unlike polygenic traits that exhibit a continuous range of phenotypes, monogenic traits typically have distinct categories or outcomes.

Epigenetic traits refer to changes in gene expression that do not involve changes to the underlying DNA sequence, often influenced by environmental factors. Discrete traits are traits that have distinct categories with no intermediate phenotypes, unlike the continuous spectrum seen in polygenic traits. Understanding polygenic inheritance is vital in fields like genetics, breeding, and veterinary science, as it helps explain the complexity of inherited traits in animals.