Question

When we say "gene flow homogenizes populations" what, precisely, do we mean?

A) Gene flow minimizes the genetic differences AMONG populations.

B) Gene flow eliminates all genetic variation WITHIN populations.

C) Gene flow eliminates all genetic variation WITHIN and AMONG populations, rendering a group of populations into a single, homogeneous set of individuals with no genetic variation.

D) Gene flow acts like a Waring blender and renders a population of individuals into a liquid mass of DNA and assorted proteins that is suitable as a tasty nutritional supplement.

Answer 1

Gene flow minimizes genetic differences among populations by moving alleles between them, leading to increased genetic homogeneity but not eliminating all genetic variation.

Step-by-step explanation:

When we say "gene flow homogenizes populations", we mean that gene flow minimizes the genetic differences among populations (Option A). Gene flow is the movement of alleles in and out of a population due to the migration of individuals or gametes. It can increase the genetic similarity between separate populations by introducing new allele variations to different locations and habitats. This process leads to more uniform allele frequencies across geographically continuous populations, making them more genetically homogeneous. However, gene flow does not necessarily eliminate all genetic variation within populations or result in a single homogeneous set of individuals with no genetic variation.