Evaluate the following pedigree, and answer the questions below. Who is/are the common ancestor(s) of the inbred individual(s)?
Table of contents
- 1. Introduction to Genetics51m
- 2. Mendel's Laws of Inheritance3h 37m
- 3. Extensions to Mendelian Inheritance2h 41m
- 4. Genetic Mapping and Linkage2h 28m
- 5. Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses1h 21m
- 6. Chromosomal Variation1h 48m
- 7. DNA and Chromosome Structure56m
- 8. DNA Replication1h 10m
- 9. Mitosis and Meiosis1h 34m
- 10. Transcription1h 0m
- 11. Translation58m
- 12. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes1h 19m
- 13. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes44m
- 14. Genetic Control of Development44m
- 15. Genomes and Genomics1h 50m
- 16. Transposable Elements47m
- 17. Mutation, Repair, and Recombination1h 6m
- 18. Molecular Genetic Tools19m
- 19. Cancer Genetics29m
- 20. Quantitative Genetics1h 26m
- 21. Population Genetics50m
- 22. Evolutionary Genetics29m
21. Population Genetics
Allelic Frequency Changes
Problem 36b
Textbook Question
Draw a separate hypothetical pedigree identifying the inbred individuals and the inbreeding pathways for each of the following inbreeding coefficients:
F=2(1/2)⁵

1
Step 1: Understand the concept of inbreeding coefficient (F). The inbreeding coefficient quantifies the probability that an individual has inherited two alleles that are identical by descent from a common ancestor. In this case, F = 2(1/2)⁵ represents the calculation for a specific inbreeding scenario.
Step 2: Break down the formula F = 2(1/2)⁵. The term (1/2)⁵ represents the probability of alleles being passed down through five generations, and the factor of 2 accounts for the two pathways through which alleles can be inherited from a common ancestor.
Step 3: Draw a hypothetical pedigree. Start by identifying the common ancestor at the top of the pedigree. Then, trace two separate pathways through five generations to the inbred individual. Ensure that the individual at the bottom of the pedigree is connected to the common ancestor through both pathways.
Step 4: Label the inbred individual and the pathways. Clearly mark the individual with the inbreeding coefficient F and highlight the two pathways leading to this individual. Use arrows or lines to show the generational connections.
Step 5: Verify the pedigree structure. Ensure that the pedigree accurately reflects the calculation of F = 2(1/2)⁵, with two distinct pathways and five generations leading to the inbred individual. Double-check that the common ancestor is correctly positioned and connected.

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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Inbreeding Coefficient (F)
The inbreeding coefficient (F) quantifies the probability that two alleles at a locus are identical by descent. It ranges from 0 (no inbreeding) to 1 (complete inbreeding). In this context, F=2(1/2)⁵ indicates a specific level of inbreeding, which can be calculated based on the number of generations and the relatedness of the individuals involved.
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F Factor and Hfr
Pedigree Analysis
Pedigree analysis is a method used to trace the inheritance of traits through generations in a family tree format. It helps identify relationships between individuals, including inbred individuals, by illustrating how traits are passed down. Understanding how to construct and interpret pedigrees is essential for visualizing inbreeding pathways and calculating inbreeding coefficients.
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Inbreeding Pathways
Inbreeding pathways refer to the specific routes through which genetic material is passed between related individuals, leading to inbreeding. These pathways can be traced in a pedigree to identify how closely related individuals contribute to the genetic makeup of offspring. Recognizing these pathways is crucial for understanding the implications of inbreeding on genetic diversity and potential health issues in a population.
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