Question

Which among the following statement is correct with respect to genetic drift?

• A. Only effective on larger population
• B. Traits are naturally selected
• C. It occurs accidentally
• D. Always provides survival advantage

Answer 1

The correct option is C It occurs accidentally

Genetic drift can have a drastic effect on smaller populations. It generally reduces genetic variability. Smaller populations are affected more by genetic drift because of sudden loss in the gene pool (sum total of all genes). This results in reduced variation and hence reduced speed of evolution for that species. Genetic drift may occur by pure chance, accident or random events. Genetic drift may or may not offer survival advantage as these changes are not naturally selected. It may even prove to be deleterious for the drifted genes and population.