Genetic and Climatic Influences on Apple Attractiveness

Abstract

In common with hereditary characters of other living organisms, the appearance (phenotype) of a specific characteristic results from the interaction of the genetic factors (genotypes) of the organism directing development under the influence of the environment surrounding the organism. The hereditary factors determine the possible limits of development, and environmental factors influence the degree of development attained. Thus, the 'Delicious' apple variety possesses genetic factors which permit a characteristic pattern and intensity of red overcolor when the fruit is exposed to adequate light intensity, but the red overcolor will not appear when the fruit is exposed to very low light intensities during development.