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Multiple Choice
Which of the following scenarios is an example of genetic drift?
A
A small population of beetles experiences a random decrease in allele frequency due to a natural disaster.
B
A population of fish increases in size due to abundant resources and favorable environmental conditions.
C
A group of mammals migrates to a new habitat, leading to changes in allele frequencies due to adaptation.
D
A population of birds evolves longer beaks due to selective pressure from available food sources.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of genetic drift: Genetic drift refers to random changes in allele frequencies within a population, often having a more pronounced effect in small populations.
Identify the key characteristic of genetic drift: It is a random process, not driven by natural selection or adaptation, and often occurs due to chance events.
Analyze the given scenarios: Look for the scenario that describes a random change in allele frequencies, particularly in a small population.
Evaluate the first scenario: A small population of beetles experiences a random decrease in allele frequency due to a natural disaster. This fits the definition of genetic drift as it involves a random event affecting allele frequencies.
Compare with other scenarios: The other scenarios involve changes due to selection or adaptation, which are not examples of genetic drift. Thus, the first scenario is the correct example of genetic drift.