The Evolution of Populations

Vocabulary flashcards based on the evolution of populations, focusing on key terms and their definitions.

Population

A group of the same species living in a specific area, with individuals exhibiting variations.

Gene Pool

The total collection of genes and their alleles present in a population.

Speciation

The process through which new species are formed, typically involving a split from a parent species.

Microevolution

Small-scale evolutionary changes within a population, particularly in allele frequencies over generations.

Natural Selection

The process by which individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce.

Genetic Drift

Random changes in allele frequencies in a small population due to chance events.

Bottleneck Effect

A sharp reduction in population size due to environmental events, leading to reduced genetic diversity.

Founder Effect

Genetic variation that occurs when a few individuals from a population establish a new population.

Hardy-Weinberg Principle

A principle stating that allele and genotype frequencies in a population remain constant in the absence of evolutionary influences.

Polymorphism

The occurrence of two or more distinct forms (morphs) within a population.

Sexual Selection

A form of natural selection based on the ability to attract mates, leading to differential reproductive success.

Allele Frequency

The relative frequency of an allele at a genetic locus, expressed as a proportion of all alleles for that gene in the population.

Gene Flow

The transfer of genetic material (alleles) between populations through migration or other movements.

Phenotypic Variation

Variability in phenotypes (observable traits) within a population, often influenced by genetic composition and environment.

Non-random Mating

When individuals select mates based on specific traits rather than at random, influencing allele frequencies.