What does the term "genotype" refer to?

The term "genotype" specifically refers to the genetic constitution of an individual organism. It encompasses the specific alleles or genes present in the organism's DNA that contribute to its inherited traits. This genetic makeup can influence various characteristics, such as eye color, height, and susceptibility to certain diseases.

Understanding the genotype is crucial because it provides insight into how traits are inherited from one generation to the next, as well as how they may express themselves in various environments. For instance, while the genotype provides the blueprint for potential traits, the actual manifestation of these traits can be influenced by environmental factors and interactions with other genes, but these considerations link more closely to the concept of phenotype rather than genotype.