In the Context of the Influenza Virus, Describe the Mechanistic

question 46

Essay

In the context of the influenza virus, describe the mechanistic difference between an antigenic drift and an antigenic shift. Also indicate the result of each.

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Definitions:

Mechanical Isolation

A prezygotic reproductive isolating mechanism in which fusion of the gametes of two species is prevented by morphological or anatomical differences.

Sexual Isolation

A prezygotic barrier where different species are unable to mate successfully due to behavioral, physiological, or environmental differences.

Behavioral Isolation

A prezygotic reproductive isolating mechanism in which reproduction between similar species is prevented because each group exhibits its own characteristic courtship behavior; also called sexual isolation.

Gametic Isolation

A prezygotic reproductive isolating mechanism in which sexual reproduction between two closely related species cannot occur because of chemical differences in the gametes.