genetic diversity

• What does genetic diversity refer to?

  The number of different alleles in a population
• Why is genetic diversity important for natural selection?

  It allows natural selection to occur
• What is the end result of natural selection?

  Evolution
• How is evolution defined in the context of natural selection?

  Change in allele frequency over generations
• What happens to allele frequency after natural selection in bacteria?

  It changes to favor resistant alleles
• What are the three types of adaptations mentioned?

  Anatomical, physiological, and behavioral
• What does anatomical adaptation refer to?

  Structural features of an organism
• What is physiological adaptation related to?

  Chemical reactions within the body
• What does behavioral adaptation involve?

  How an organism behaves to survive
• What is the process of natural selection?

  1. Genetic diversity exists in a population.
  2. New alleles arise from random mutations.
  3. Alleles that increase survival are favored.
  4. Individuals with advantageous alleles reproduce.
  5. Over generations, allele frequency changes.
• How does fur color in mice illustrate natural selection?

  Dark fur provides a selective advantage
• What is the selective advantage for owls with good eyesight?

  They can see mice better for food
• What are the two types of natural selection discussed?

  1. Directional selection

  • One extreme trait has the advantage.

  1. Stabilizing selection

  • The modal trait remains advantageous.
• What is directional selection?

  When one extreme trait has the advantage
• What triggers directional selection in bacteria?

  A change in the environment, like antibiotics
• What is stabilizing selection?

  The modal trait remains the selective advantage
• How does human birth weight illustrate stabilizing selection?

  Medium weights have the highest survival rates
• What is the significance of the middle birth weight in humans?

  • Reduces risk of underdeveloped organs
  • Minimizes complications during childbirth
  • Most common weight range is 6-9 pounds