One theme in physiology states that the physiology of an animal is part of its __________, which is based on its __________ and environmental influences.

The correct answer highlights the relationship between an animal's phenotype and genotype, placing emphasis on how these biological factors interact with environmental influences to shape the physiological traits of the animal.

The term "phenotype" refers to the observable physical and biochemical characteristics of an organism, which are influenced by both its genetic traits (the genotype) and environmental factors. This means that while the genotype provides the potential for certain traits, it is the phenotype that actually manifests, influenced by the surrounding conditions and experiences throughout the organism's life.

Understanding this relationship is crucial in physiology because it illustrates how an animal's environment can affect its growth, behavior, and overall functioning, leading to variations in how different individuals of the same species may express their physiological traits. The interplay between an organism's inherent genetic makeup and its interactions with the environment is fundamental in the study of animal physiology, addressing how adaptations occur and how species survive in varied habitats.