Why is Mendel referred to as the "father of genetics"?

Mendel is referred to as the "father of genetics" because he established foundational principles of heredity through his methodical experiments with pea plants. His work, conducted in the mid-1800s, involved careful cross-breeding experiments that led to the discovery of key concepts such as dominant and recessive traits, segregation, and independent assortment. These principles were articulated in what are now known as Mendel's laws of inheritance. His systematic approach to studying inheritance patterns laid the groundwork for the field of genetics, defining how traits are transmitted from one generation to the next. Mendel’s findings remained largely unrecognized during his lifetime, but later research confirmed their significance and relevance to understanding genetic inheritance, solidifying his legacy as a pioneer in the field.