what is a recessive trait

A recessive trait is a genetic trait that is only expressed when an individual has two copies of the recessive allele, one from each parent. In other words, the trait is masked or not expressed when an individual has only one copy of the recessive allele, which is known as being heterozygous. Individuals inherit two versions of each gene, known as alleles, from each parent. In the case of a recessive trait, the alleles of the trait-causing gene are the same, and both (recessive) alleles must be present to express the trait. Recessive traits have a definite impact on child development, and children can inherit recessive characteristics ranging from physical traits like red hair or a straight nose to serious conditions such as hemophilia or color blindness.