What are learned traits?

Learned traits are behaviors that result from the influence of one's environment, as opposed to inherent traits, which are passed down automatically in one's DNA. A common learned trait is the use of language. People develop this trait over time by observing others communicating and learning structure and terms.

Animals and plants can learn traits similar to the way humans do. Plants and trees may grow differently or adapt to environmental factors that cause them to develop abnormally. Many animals in the wild learn how to hunt or find food through training provided by their parents. Learning to ride a bike is another example of a learned trait for humans.