Genetic Variation
Definition
Genetic variation refers to differences in the genetic makeup among individuals within a population or species due to mutation, gene flow, sexual reproduction etc., which is essential for evolution by natural selection.
Analogy
Think of genetic variation like different flavors of ice cream. Just as a variety of flavors makes an ice cream shop more interesting and adaptable to different customer preferences, genetic variation makes a population more resilient and adaptable to changing environments.
Related terms
Mutation: A change in the DNA sequence that can introduce new genetic variation.
Gene Flow: The transfer of genes from one population to another, increasing genetic variation in the receiving population.
Sexual Reproduction: The process by which offspring are produced from two parents, contributing to genetic variation through recombination and segregation of genes.
"Genetic Variation" appears in:
Study guides (3)
Practice Questions (5)
- Genetic variation can increase in meiosis due to all of the above except __.
- What preserves genetic variation in a population?
- Natural selection acts by ___ determining the survival and reproduction of individual organisms with different genetic variation.
- Which of the following factors can contribute to the maintenance of genetic variation within a population?
- What perserves genetic variation in a population?
Resources
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