Which of These Variables Is Likely to Undergo the Largest

question 55

Multiple Choice

Which of these variables is likely to undergo the largest change in value as the result of a mutation that introduces a brand-new allele into a population's gene pool at a locus that had formerly been fixed?

• A) average heterozygosity
• B) nucleotide variability
• C) geographic variability
• D) average number of loci

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Definitions:

Shared Ancestry

The common evolutionary origin of two or more species, which is reflected in their genetic material.

Ideal Free Distribution

A theory in ecology that predicts how animals distribute themselves among habitats to maximize their fitness, assuming individuals are free to choose and are perfectly informed.

Habitats

The natural environments or places where a particular species lives and grows; it is crucial for the survival of species.

Fitness

In evolutionary terms, the ability of an organism to survive and reproduce, thus passing on its genes to the next generation.