How do mitochondria and chloroplasts determine phenotypes? Which characteristics of mitochondria and chloroplasts allow such phenotypes to be inherited? Provide specific examples to illustrate your response.

Both mitochondria and chloroplasts possess DNA, which directs the synthesis of proteins. These proteins influence mitochondrial structure and function and, thus, influence the phenotype. Mitochondria are involved in energy conversions in cells (petite strains in yeast); chloroplasts are involved in photosynthesis as well as leaf coloration (iojap in maize).