What is a genome?

A genome refers to the complete set of genetic material present within an organism, encompassing all of its genes as well as non-coding sequences of DNA. This includes not just the protein-coding genes but also regulatory sequences, introns, and other elements that play crucial roles in gene expression and overall genetic functioning. The genome represents the entire blueprint for the organism's biological structure, function, and development.

Understanding the concept of a genome is essential for various biological fields, including genetics, genomics, and evolutionary biology, as it serves as the foundation for studying heredity, variation, and the complex interactions between genes and the environment.