Texas FFA Livestock Judging Practice Test

The physical appearance of an animal is referred to as its phenotype. This term encompasses all observable characteristics, including traits such as size, color, and coat type. These traits are the result of the genetic information (genotype) an animal carries, but they are specifically the manifestation of that genetic information.

In contrast, genotype refers to the genetic makeup of the animal, which can include alleles that determine inherited traits but are not directly observable. Breed denotes a group of animals with similar characteristics that have been selectively bred, while lineage refers to the ancestry or pedigree of an animal, detailing its heritage over generations. Therefore, phenotype accurately describes the visible traits and characteristics that can be assessed when judging livestock.