In genetics, a trait that can mask the presence of another is known as?

A trait that can mask the presence of another is referred to as a dominant trait. In genetic terms, dominant traits are expressed in the phenotype even when only one copy of the gene is present. This contrasts with recessive traits, which require two copies to be expressed.

For example, in a scenario where an individual has one dominant allele and one recessive allele for a specific trait, the dominant allele will determine the individual's observable characteristics, while the recessive allele will not have any effect unless paired with another recessive allele. This masking effect of dominant traits is fundamental to Mendelian genetics and helps in understanding inheritance patterns.

In contrast, recessive traits cannot express themselves unless paired with another recessive trait; sex-linked traits relate to genes located on sex chromosomes and do not inherently mask other traits; and polygenic traits involve multiple genes contributing to a single phenotype, making them complex but not defined by a singular masking characteristic.