quantitative trait; quantitative character
Technical term in biology, especially genetics, for a measurable phenotype that varies continuously and is influenced by multiple genes and the environment.
Height and weight are typical quantitative traits.
Statistical methods are used for genetic analysis of quantitative traits.
質的形質 (qualitative trait) refers to discrete, categorical traits controlled by one or a few genes, while 量的形質 is continuous and polygenic.
quantitative trait locus; QTL
Compound of 量的 (quantitative) + 形質 (trait, character). A modern scientific term, likely a calque from English 'quantitative trait'.