Question

Twenty small populations of a species, each polymorphic for a given locus (T, t) were bred in captivity. In 10 of them, the population size was kept constant by random removal of individuals, while other 10 were allowed to increase their population size. After several generations it was observed that in 7 of the size restricted populations only T was present, in the remaining 3 only t was present. In the growing populations 8 retained their polymorphism and in 2 only t was observed. The experiment illustrates _________.

• A. Genetic drift which is more likely in small populations
• B. Genetic drift which is more likely in large populations
• C. Density dependent selection against T
• D. Density dependent selection against t

Answer 1

The correct option is A Genetic drift which is more likely in small populations

Answer is option A i.e. "Genetic drift which is more likely in small populations"

Genetic drift is change in allele frequencies in a population from generation to generation that occurs due to chance events. Genetic drift leads to fixation of alleles or genotypes in populations as shown in experiment above. Genetic drift decreases gene diversity and leads to population subdivision. Genetic drift tends to be stronger in small populations.