A tool employing principles of heredity attempts to predict the likelihood of offspring inheriting specific iris pigmentation. Based on the known or presumed genotypes of the parents concerning relevant genes, it outputs the probability of various phenotypes appearing in their children. For example, by inputting the parental eye colors, along with family history if available, such a tool generates possible eye color outcomes for potential offspring.
The significance of this predictive capability lies in its potential applications in various fields, ranging from educational demonstrations of Mendelian inheritance to providing insights for genealogical research. Understanding the genetic basis of eye color, while simplified by these tools, offers a tangible and engaging introduction to the complex interplay of genetics. Historically, the development of these predictions has mirrored advances in understanding the specific genes involved in melanin production and distribution within the iris.