What does the term genotype refer to?

The term genotype refers specifically to the genetic makeup of an individual. This includes the specific alleles or variations of genes that an individual possesses, which can influence various traits and biological processes. Unlike observable traits, which are known as the phenotype, the genotype encompasses the underlying genetic information that may or may not be expressed phenotypically due to environmental factors or other interactions. Understanding the distinction between genotype and phenotype is crucial in fields like genetics and biomedical science, as it helps in recognizing how inherited traits are passed on and how they can affect health, development, and disease susceptibility. The other options relate to different aspects of biology and genetics but do not accurately define what a genotype is.