How many yeast cells should be sent from each bakery to maintain genetic similarity among yeast populations?

Sending a population of 100 yeast cells from each bakery is an effective strategy for maintaining genetic similarity among yeast populations. This number is significant enough to capture a diverse representation of the genetic variation within a population. In small populations, genetic drift can have a profound impact, leading to the loss of genetic diversity. By sending 100 cells, the likelihood of including a broader range of genetic variants increases, which helps to prevent inbreeding and promotes a healthier, more robust yeast population.

Additionally, larger sample sizes tend to buffer against the effects of random sampling errors that can skew genetic diversity. Small samples (like 1 or 10 cells) might not accurately reflect the population's genetic makeup, which can lead to homogenization or the loss of unique genetic traits. Conversely, while sending 1,000 cells could provide even more genetic diversity, it may be impractical and unnecessary for maintaining similarity among the populations when 100 already offers a sufficient balance of diversity and feasibility.