What is the diagram called that shows the occurrence of a genetic trait in several generations of a family?

• A. Family tree
• B. Pedigree
• C. Lineage chart
• D. Genogram

Answer: (B)

A pedigree is the diagram used to track who in each generation has a genetic trait and how it appears across the family. In a pedigree, generations are shown in rows, individuals are represented by shapes (usually squares for males and circles for females), and shading indicates who expresses the trait. This setup lets you see patterns of inheritance across multiple generations, such as whether the trait tends to skip generations or affects males and females similarly, which helps identify autosomal or sex-linked inheritance.

A family tree shows relationships but not the presence or absence of a trait. A genogram covers family structure and health history more broadly, not specifically focused on how a trait is passed down. Lineage chart isn’t a standard term used for genetic inheritance. So the diagram that specifically shows the occurrence of a genetic trait through generations is the pedigree.