Question

The Florida panther, Puma concolor, is an endangered species. Because of human development, the habitat of this large predator is becoming increasingly fragmented. It is estimated that only about 100 panthers remain in existence today.

a. Biologists have expressed concern about the effects of genetic drift on this species. Explain how genetic drift can be expected to affect allele frequencies of this species and why biologists are concerned.
b. Genetic drift is not a significant concern for this species.
c. The habitat fragmentation has a positive impact on genetic diversity.
d. Habitat fragmentation has no impact on the Florida panther population.

Answer 1

The Florida panther is endangered largely due to habitat fragmentation and the genetic drift resulting from it. Genetic drift reduces genetic diversity and increases risks of inbreeding, making it a significant concern for the species. Habitat fragmentation negatively impacts both gene flow and population viability.

Step-by-step explanation:

First, addressing part (a) of the question, genetic drift can dramatically affect the allele frequencies in small, isolated populations like that of the Florida panther. The random change in allele frequencies can lead to a loss of genetic diversity and increase the chances of inbreeding depression.

For part (b), it is actually incorrect to say that genetic drift is not a concern for the Florida panther; it is actually a major concern due to their low numbers and the lack of gene flow caused by fragmentation of their habitat.

Part (c) is also incorrect as habitat fragmentation generally has a negative impact on genetic diversity rather than a positive one. It limits the movement of individuals, reduces gene flow, and increases the risk of local extinctions of populations in fragmented patches.

Lastly, part (d) is also false since habitat fragmentation significantly impacts the Florida panther population by isolating various sub-populations, restricting gene flow, and escalating the risk of genetic drift effects, which can lead to decreased genetic variation and overall fitness of the species.