How can environmental factors impact gene expression?

Environmental factors can significantly influence gene expression by modulating how genes are activated or deactivated in response to external stimuli. This process, known as gene regulation, can affect an organism's phenotype—its observable characteristics—without altering the underlying genetic sequence.

For example, factors such as temperature, light, and availability of nutrients can trigger changes in gene activity, leading to variations in traits like coloration, growth rates, and even metabolic processes. This adaptability is crucial for survival, as organisms can alter their traits in response to changing environments.

Such a phenomenon illustrates the interplay between genetics and the environment, emphasizing that while the genetic code remains constant, the expression of these genes can vary greatly depending on external conditions.