Population Genetics Flashcards
Define population genetics.
Describing, modelling and explaining changes in allele frequencies within and among populations.
Define evolution.
The change of allele frequencies in populations over time.
How can you infer migration using genetic similarity?
High genetic similarity suggests high dispersal or recent isolation. Low genetic similarity suggests low dispersal or long history of isolation.
What does a genetic divergence-geographical distance graph show?
It shows the barriers, vagility and duration of isolation.
What does a morphological divergence-genetic divergence graph show?
It shows the selective forces and how diversity arises.
What is the proximate cause?
Genes that have different alleles.
How many alleles can an individual have at each locus?
Up to 2.
How many alleles can be found in the genes of a population?
More than 2.
Define a gene pool.
The entirety of alleles at a given locus for a population.
What does the Hardy-Weinberg principle explain?
Which genotype frequencies to expect in the next generation if the genotype frequencies of the parental generation are known.
What are some of the assumptions in the Hardy-Weinberg principle?
1) Diploid organisms.
2) Sexual reproduction only.
3) Random mating.
4) Non-overlapping generations.
5) Infinitely large population.
Why is the Hardy-Weinberg principle still accurate when there are so many assumptions?
Because the assumptions tend to cancel each other out.
What is a polymorphic locus?
A locus with more than 1 allele in a population.
What is the effect on genotype of inbreeding?
An excess of homozygotes.
What is the effect on genotype of outbreeding?
A lack of homozygotes.
