Genetic and Protein Polymorphism

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to genetic and protein polymorphism.

Polymorphism

The condition of having more than a single allele at a locus.

Monomorphic

Having only a single allele at a locus.

Heterozygosity

The condition of having two alternative alleles present at a gene locus in a diploid organism.

Natural Selection

The process by which the best allele survives and reproduces in a certain environment.

Electrophoretic Studies

Laboratory methods used to measure genetic variation, particularly in proteins.

Endemic Species

Species with narrow geographic ranges.

Polymorphic Loci

Loci that have two or more alleles present in a population.

Gymnosperms

A group of plants with higher levels of polymorphism, often attributed to their long life and wide geographic range.

Invertebrates

Animals that generally show higher levels of polymorphism compared to vertebrates.

Selective Advantage

The advantage that a heterozygous individual may have in terms of fitness compared to a homozygous individual.