In population genetics, which process directly produces gene flow between populations and can change allelic frequencies?

• A. Genetic drift due to sampling error in a small, isolated population with no immigrants
• B. Random mating occurring only within each population (panmixia)
• C. Migration of individuals (or their gametes) between populations followed by successful reproduction
• D. Mutation generating new alleles within a population without movement between populations

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of gene flow: Gene flow refers to the transfer of alleles or genes from one population to another, which can alter allele frequencies in the recipient population.
2. Identify the processes listed and analyze their effects on allele frequencies: Genetic drift affects allele frequencies due to random sampling but occurs within isolated populations without gene exchange; random mating within a population does not introduce new alleles from outside; mutation creates new alleles but does not involve movement between populations.
3. Recognize that migration involves the movement of individuals or their gametes between populations, allowing alleles to be exchanged and thus directly producing gene flow.
4. Note that successful reproduction after migration is necessary for the introduced alleles to be incorporated into the gene pool of the new population, thereby changing allelic frequencies.
5. Conclude that among the options, migration followed by reproduction is the process that directly produces gene flow and can change allele frequencies between populations.