Question

If f alleles arise via mutation with probability mu = 5 x 10-11 per generation, what is the expected long-term frequency of the f allele in this population?

Answer 1

The long-term frequency of the f allele in a population with mutation rate μM = 5 x 10^-11 per generation is expected to be equal to the mutation rate itself in the absence of other evolutionary forces.

Step-by-step explanation:

The long-term frequency of the f allele in a population, given a mutation rate μM = 5 x 10-11 per generation, is typically equal to the mutation rate itself when the allele is neutral and there is no selection for or against it. This equilibrium frequency occurs when the rate of loss of alleles due to genetic drift or other factors is balanced by the rate of introduction of new alleles via mutation. In this scenario, assuming no other evolutionary forces are at play (selection, migration, genetic drift on a large scale), the expected frequency would simply be μM.