- Sep 2022
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bio.libretexts.org bio.libretexts.org
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However, members of one population may breed with occasional immigrants from an adjacent population of the same species
would this alter a species ability to survive if an unfavorable set of genetics is introduced to the population?
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bio.libretexts.org bio.libretexts.org
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Sometimes, allele frequencies within a population change randomly with no advantage to the population over existing allele frequencies
Genetic drift is a variation of evolution that sometimes creates little impact in the survival of a species. With natural selection, we know the certain favorable traits are passed down to future generations to ensure survival. But, with genetic drift, it's not always advantageous. Very little change, or, a very large impact can come from it.
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bio.libretexts.org bio.libretexts.org
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Another important evolutionary force is gene flow, or the flow of alleles in and out of a population resulting from the migration of individuals or gametes
How would gene flow strengthen or weaken a new variation? Would the combination of specific genes make the species less or more likely to survive in the same conditions?
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bio.libretexts.org bio.libretexts.org
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Ultimately, natural selection leads to greater adaptation of the population to its local environment; it is the only mechanism known for adaptive evolution.
The environment where different variations of the same species live ultimately effects the genetics. Environmental conditions heavily influence the favorable genes essential for a species to survive in their given habitat and ecosystem. Adaptive evolution through the natural selection process forces a species to slightly change over time as favorable genetics are passed down through generations to maximize survival in an ever-changing environment as conditions change.
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