How do Mendelian traits differ from multifactorial traits?

Mendelian traits are characterized by their inheritance patterns that can be traced back to a single gene. This is a key aspect of Mendelian genetics, where traits are typically classified as dominant or recessive, and the outcomes can be predicted using simple ratios based on the alleles from the parents. The traits exhibit clear, distinct phenotypes, such as flower color in pea plants that Mendel famously studied.

In contrast, multifactorial traits are influenced by multiple genes and often involve environmental factors as well. These traits do not follow simple inheritance patterns, which makes them more complex. They can also show a range of phenotypes rather than distinct categories.

Understanding this distinction is crucial for interpreting genetic patterns. While Mendelian traits can lead to predictable inheritance patterns based solely on one gene, multifactorial traits involve a combination of several genes and environmental contributors, leading to a broader spectrum of phenotypes.