Question

Explain how gene flow influences effective population size, allele frequencies, and genetic divergence between population living in different regions?

A) Gene flow decreases effective population size (Ne), homogenizes allele frequencies, and increases genetic divergence between populations.

B) Gene flow increases effective population size (Ne), homogenizes allele frequencies, and reduces genetic divergence between populations.

C) Gene flow has no impact on effective population size (Ne), allele frequencies, or genetic divergence between populations.

D) Gene flow reduces effective population size (Ne), maintains distinct allele frequencies, and encourages genetic divergence between populations.

Answer 1

Gene flow influences effective population size, allele frequencies, and genetic divergence between populations in different regions. It increases effective population size (Ne), homogenizes allele frequencies, and can lead to genetic divergence due to natural selection.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gene flow, the movement of alleles across populations, has a significant impact on effective population size (Ne), allele frequencies, and genetic divergence between populations living in different regions. When gene flow is high, it increases effective population size (Ne) as individuals from different populations mate and exchange alleles.

This results in more genetic diversity within the population and reduces the chances of genetic drift. Gene flow also homogenizes allele frequencies between populations, as the movement of individuals allows for the spread of alleles. However, gene flow can also promote genetic divergence between populations in different regions, especially if there are differences in environmental conditions, such as climate or resources, which result in natural selection favoring different adaptations in each population. Over time, these differences in allele frequencies and adaptations can lead to genetic divergence between populations.