What kind of inheritance pattern is represented when one trait completely masks another?

The inheritance pattern where one trait completely masks another is defined as complete dominance. In this scenario, the dominant allele overshadows the effects of the recessive allele. For instance, if a plant has a genotype with one allele for tallness (dominant) and one for shortness (recessive), the resulting phenotype will be tall, as the tall allele completely masks the short allele.

In contrast, incomplete dominance occurs when the heterozygous phenotype is a blend of the two alleles, rather than one completely dominating the other. Codominance involves both alleles being expressed equally in the phenotype, leading to distinct traits being present simultaneously. Polygenic inheritance describes the situation where multiple genes contribute to a single trait, resulting in a continuous range of phenotypes.

Complete dominance is significant in Mendelian genetics as it helps explain how traits can be passed on and expressed across generations, establishing a foundation for understanding more complex genetic interactions.