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In most species, scientists have observed that related individuals share about 80% of

the same genes. Cheetahs today, however, are known to share 99% of the same
genes.
What does this lack of genetic diversity imply about the history of the cheetah
population?
Cheetahs never have experience mutations
Cheetahs have experienced reproductive isolation
O Cheetahs interbred with other large cat species
Cheetahs share a common ancestor with other large cat species

User Samitgaur
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Cheetahs share a common ancestor with other large cat species and have experienced a genetic bottleneck event, resulting in a lack of genetic diversity.


Step-by-step explanation:

The lack of genetic diversity observed in cheetahs implies that they share a common ancestor with other large cat species. This is evident by the fact that cheetahs today share 99% of the same genes. The high level of genetic similarity suggests that cheetahs have gone through a genetic bottleneck event in their history, leading to a reduction in genetic variation and a smaller gene pool.


Learn more about Cheetahs and genetic diversity

User Nosequeldeebee
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