Question

Variation in gene frequencies within populations can occur rather than by natural selection. This is referred to as

• A. Genetic drift
• B. Random mating
• C. Genetic load
• D. Genetic flow

Answer 1

The correct option is A Genetic drift

Genetic drift is concerned with the gene frequency of a reproducing small population. In a small population not all the alleles which are representatives of that species may be present. In such a small population a chance event may increase the frequency of a character that has little adaptive value. Thus the genetic drift may remain a significant factor in the origin of new species on islands and other isolated populations. The small population as a whole may develop characters different from that found in the main population. Such variations other than the process of natural selection may even lead to speciation or formation of a new species.

Thus, the correct answer is option A.