Multiple Choice
Which of the following is NOT an example of a process that directly changes allelic frequency in a population?
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21. Population Genetics
Allelic Frequency Changes
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best defines gene flow in the context of allelic frequency changes?
A
An increase in the frequency of alleles that improve survival or reproduction due to natural selection
B
Random fluctuations in allele frequencies due to chance events, especially in small populations
C
Movement of alleles between populations via migration of individuals or transfer of gametes, which can change allele frequencies in the recipient population
D
Non-random mating in which individuals preferentially mate with genetically similar partners, increasing homozygosity
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the concept of gene flow. Gene flow refers to the transfer of alleles or genes from one population to another, which can alter allele frequencies in the recipient population.
Step 2: Differentiate gene flow from other evolutionary mechanisms: natural selection (which increases alleles that improve survival), genetic drift (random fluctuations in allele frequencies), and non-random mating (which affects genotype frequencies but not allele frequencies directly).
Step 3: Recognize that gene flow occurs through migration of individuals or transfer of gametes (e.g., pollen), allowing alleles to move between populations.
Step 4: Note that gene flow tends to reduce genetic differences between populations by introducing new alleles or changing allele frequencies in the receiving population.
Step 5: Conclude that the best definition of gene flow is the movement of alleles between populations via migration or gamete transfer, which changes allele frequencies in the recipient population.
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