Multiple Choice
How does genetic drift affect small populations differently than large populations?
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22. Evolution of Populations
Genetic Drift
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Which of the following best describes the bottleneck effect in the context of genetic drift?
A
The accumulation of mutations in a population over time.
B
A sharp reduction in the size of a population due to environmental events, leading to a loss of genetic variation.
C
The movement of individuals between populations, resulting in gene flow.
D
The process by which individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the concept of genetic drift. Genetic drift refers to random changes in allele frequencies within a population, often having a more significant effect in small populations.
Step 2: Define the bottleneck effect. The bottleneck effect is a specific type of genetic drift that occurs when a population experiences a sharp reduction in size due to environmental events (e.g., natural disasters, habitat destruction). This reduction can lead to a loss of genetic variation.
Step 3: Analyze the options provided. Eliminate choices that do not align with the definition of the bottleneck effect. For example, 'accumulation of mutations' and 'movement of individuals between populations' describe other processes, not the bottleneck effect.
Step 4: Focus on the correct description. The bottleneck effect is best described as 'a sharp reduction in the size of a population due to environmental events, leading to a loss of genetic variation.'
Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the option that matches the definition of the bottleneck effect, emphasizing its role in reducing genetic diversity due to a population size reduction.
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