What is genetic drift in the context of population genetics?

• A. The selection of advantageous traits leading to evolution
• B. The increase in genetic variation due to mutation
• C. A random change in allele frequencies within a population
• D. The movement of alleles between populations due to migration

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Genetic drift is a concept in population genetics that refers to random changes in allele frequencies within a population over time.
2. Unlike natural selection, which involves the selection of advantageous traits, genetic drift occurs by chance and does not necessarily favor beneficial traits.
3. Genetic drift is more pronounced in small populations where random events can have a larger impact on allele frequencies.
4. Over time, genetic drift can lead to the loss or fixation of alleles, reducing genetic variation within the population.
5. It is important to distinguish genetic drift from other mechanisms like gene flow, which involves the movement of alleles between populations due to migration.