Comparing Genetic Diversity

Genetic diversity definition

Variation in alleles within or between species

Methods to determine genetic diversity

Compare measurable traits, DNA sequence, mRNA sequence, amino acid sequence

Observable characteristics definition

Physical traits such as shape or size

Limitations of using observable traits

May be influenced by environment, coded by multiple genes, or arise independently

Modern method for assessing genetic diversity

Gene technology to read DNA or mRNA sequences

Sampling DNA/mRNA

Picking individuals to measure genetic variation

Amino acid sequence relevance

Reflects mRNA and DNA sequence differences

Interspecific variation definition

Differences between species

Intraspecific variation definition

Differences between individuals of the same species

Sampling definition

Random selection of individuals to measure traits

Limitation of sampling

May not be representative due to chance or bias

Sampling bias definition

Systematic error caused by non-random selection

Techniques to reduce sampling bias

Use quadrats or transects on randomly generated coordinates

Quadrat definition

Square frame used to measure organisms in a specific area

Transect definition

Line used to measure organisms along a path

How to increase reliability of sampling

Larger sample size