There are 40 individuals in population 1, all with genotype A1A1, and there are 25 individuals in population 2, all with genotyp
e A2A2. Assume that these populations are located far from each other and that their environmental conditions are very similar. Based on the information given here, the observed genetic variation is most likely an example of: a. genetic drift.
b. gene flow.
c. disruptive selection.
d. discrete variation.
e. directional selection.
Genetic drift can also be referred to as allelic drift, it refers to the variation in allelic frequencies within a particular population over a period of time. It can also be referred to as the random fluctuations in the number of genotypes within a population. Genetic drift is not influenced by the environment and is usually more pronounced in a small population of organisms.
For example, a population of birds can consist of green feathers and blue feathers with the green feathers as the dominant allele, but as a result of random fluctuations, the offspring may all be with green feathers and hence could eliminate or reduce the allele responsible for blue feathers over time.
