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Non-Random Mating definitions

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  • Non-Random Mating
    Occurs when certain genotypes preferentially mate, altering genotype frequencies but not allele frequencies in a population.
  • Genotype Frequency
    Represents the proportion of different genetic combinations present within a population.
  • Allele Frequency
    Describes the relative abundance of a specific genetic variant within a population's gene pool.
  • Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium
    A theoretical state where genotype and allele frequencies remain constant across generations in the absence of evolutionary forces.
  • Inbreeding
    Mating between closely related individuals, often due to proximity, leading to increased homozygosity.
  • Homozygosity
    A measure indicating the proportion of individuals with two identical alleles for a given gene in a population.
  • Inbreeding Depression
    A reduction in fitness caused by increased expression of harmful recessive alleles due to excess homozygotes.
  • Deleterious Recessive Allele
    A genetic variant that, when present in two copies, can cause harmful effects or reduced fitness.
  • Sexual Selection
    A process where certain traits increase an individual's ability to obtain mates, distinct from non-random pairing.
  • Natural Selection
    A mechanism that changes allele frequencies by favoring traits that enhance survival or reproduction.
  • Homozygote
    An individual possessing two identical alleles for a specific gene.
  • Wind Pollination
    A reproductive strategy where pollen is dispersed by air currents, often limiting mating to nearby individuals.
  • Population Dynamics
    The study of changes in population size, structure, and genetic composition over time.