Cryptozygous

/ˌkrɪptoʊˈzɪɡəs/ adjective

Definition

In genetics, describing an organism that carries hidden or recessive genetic traits that are present but not visibly expressed.

Etymology

From Greek 'kryptos' (hidden) + 'zygous' (having a specified zygotic condition), describing organisms with concealed genetic information.

Kelly Says

A cryptozygous fruit fly might look normal but carry genes for different eye color—this simple concept helped Thomas Hunt Morgan prove that genes control traits and earned him the Nobel Prize!

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