Discrete variation is either/or and is often caused by the presence or absence of a small number if genes. For example, our ability to "roll" our tongues is determined by just one gene. We can all either roll our tongue or not - there's nothing in between. ... Height is a good example of continuous variation.

What causes discrete variation?

Discrete variation

Characteristics controlled by a single gene (one copy inherited from each parent) tend to have phenotypes that fall into separate categories. They show discrete variation.

What is an example of discrete variation?

Other characteristics are examples of discrete variation. These characteristics have a limited number of possibilities. For example, the ability to curl your tongue is genetic. ... The ABO blood group is another example of a discrete genetic characteristic.