Which statement best describes genetic traits?

Genetic traits are indeed the result of interactions between an organism's genes and the environment. This interaction is crucial because while genes provide the blueprint for various traits, environmental factors can significantly influence how these traits are expressed. For example, a plant may have genes that dictate its potential height, but actual growth can be affected by sunlight, water availability, and soil quality. This interplay means that traits cannot be examined in isolation from the environmental context.

Other statements suggest that traits are either solely environmental or fixed, which does not consider the complexity of traits arising from both genetic and environmental factors. For instance, traits are not exclusively transmitted through somatic cells (which are body cells) as they can also be inherited via gametes. The notion of traits being fixed and unchangeable overlooks the dynamic nature of gene expression, which can vary based on environmental conditions and other factors. These considerations highlight why the correct statement reflects the multifaceted nature of genetic traits.