L11 Population Genetics Flashcards
Population Genetics
Study of allele frequencies in populations over time.
Mutation
Change in DNA sequence affecting genetic information.
Natural Selection
Environment favors certain phenotypes for survival.
Genetic Drift
Random changes in allele frequencies in populations.
Non-random Mating
Mates chosen based on genotype or phenotype.
Gene Flow
Transfer of alleles between populations.
Alleles
Distinct variants of a specific gene.
Genotype
Genetic constitution of an organism.
Phenotype
Observable traits resulting from genotype.
Diploid Organisms
Organisms with two alleles for each gene.
Dominant Allele
Allele expressing phenotype in homozygous or heterozygous.
Recessive Allele
Allele expressing phenotype only in homozygous state.
Wild Type Allele
Most common allele in a population.
Mutant Allele
Variant allele differing from wild type.
Hardy-Weinberg Principle
Model predicting allele frequencies in populations.
Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium
Condition where allele frequencies remain constant.
Fitness
Likelihood of survival and reproduction.
Absolute Fitness
Fitness of an individual organism.
Relative Fitness
Fitness compared to other genotypes.
Population Bottleneck
Sharp reduction in population size affecting gene pool.
Founder Effect
New population established by a small group.
Assortative Mating
Mates chosen based on genetic similarity.
Negative Assortative Mating
Mates chosen based on genetic dissimilarity.
Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC)
Genes important for immune system function.
Runaway Theory
Females select mates based on exaggerated traits.
Handicap Principle
Costly traits indicate genetic fitness.
Tay-Sachs Disease
Autosomal recessive disorder from HEXA gene mutations.
Carrier Screening
Testing for genetic disease carriers.
Acacia Trees
Food source for giraffes influencing neck evolution.
Sexual Dimorphism
Differences in appearance between sexes.
Giraffe Neck Evolution
Long necks evolved for feeding and mating advantages.
