Read each example and decide whether each would increase or decrease the genetic variation in the gene pool of that population: A zebra migrates to join a different herd of zebras.... Read each example and decide whether each would increase or decrease the genetic variation in the gene pool of that population: A zebra migrates to join a different herd of zebras. Competition for sunlight leads to taller trees. The DNA of a snake changes to make its venom stronger. A grassfire randomly sweeps through a population of buffalo and kills most of the animals.
Understand the Problem
The question asks to evaluate several scenarios and determine whether each example will increase or decrease genetic variation in the gene pool of a given population.
Answer
Migration: Increase, Competition: Decrease, Mutation: Increase, Grassfire: Decrease.
The zebra migration increases genetic variation, competition leading to taller trees decreases it indirectly through selection, the snake DNA mutation increases it, and the grassfire decreases variation by reducing population size.
Answer for screen readers
The zebra migration increases genetic variation, competition leading to taller trees decreases it indirectly through selection, the snake DNA mutation increases it, and the grassfire decreases variation by reducing population size.
More Information
Migration introduces new alleles, while strong selection and random events usually lead to reduced variation. Mutations typically increase genetic variation as they introduce new genetic material.
Tips
A common mistake is to overlook the long-term effects of selection and random events. Always consider how each factor adds or subtracts from the total genetic diversity.
Sources
- Factors affecting Genetic variation - coursehero.com
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