Herdabilidade h²
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
About this calculator
The heritability h² calculator is a tool used to estimate the proportion of phenotypic variation in a population that can be attributed to genetic factors. Heritability is calculated as the ratio of genetic variance (Vg) to phenotypic variance (Vp), i.e., h² = Vg / Vp. This allows researchers to better understand how genes influence the characteristics of a population.
Heritability h² is a fundamental concept in quantitative genetics and is widely used in plant and animal breeding, as well as in human genetics studies. It helps determine the expected response to artificial or natural selection and predict the likelihood of a characteristic being influenced by genetic factors.
When using the heritability h² calculator, it is essential to consider common precautions, such as the need for a representative sample of the population and the choice of quantitative and continuous characteristics. Additionally, it is crucial to remember that heritability is an estimate and not a direct measure of genetic influence on a characteristic.
The interpretation of heritability h² results is also critical. High heritability (close to 1) indicates that the characteristic is strongly influenced by genetic factors, while low heritability (close to 0) suggests that the characteristic is more influenced by environmental factors.
Frequently asked questions
What is heritability h²?
Heritability h² is the proportion of phenotypic variation in a population that can be attributed to genetic factors.
How is heritability h² calculated?
Heritability h² is calculated as the ratio of genetic variance (Vg) to phenotypic variance (Vp), i.e., h² = Vg / Vp.
What are common precautions when using the heritability h² calculator?
It is essential to consider the need for a representative sample of the population and the choice of quantitative and continuous characteristics.
What does high or low heritability mean?
High heritability (close to 1) indicates that the characteristic is strongly influenced by genetic factors, while low heritability (close to 0) suggests that the characteristic is more influenced by environmental factors.
In which areas is heritability h² used?
Heritability h² is used in plant and animal breeding, as well as in human genetics studies.