In a large population, what is the likelihood of allele G going extinct given it has a fatality rate of 83% in homozygous individuals?

Prepare for your Arizona State University (ASU) BIO345 Evolution Exam 1. Study with comprehensive resources, including flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

The rationale behind the choice highlighting low likelihood of allele G going extinct is based on the relationship between fitness and genetic variation in a population. In a large population, despite the high fatality rate in homozygous individuals, the presence of heterozygotes can significantly influence the survival of the allele. If allele G has neutral fitness in heterozygotes, it implies that individuals carrying one copy of allele G alongside a different allele experience no disadvantage in terms of survival and reproduction. This heterozygote advantage helps maintain genetic diversity within the population.

The frequency of allele G, therefore, could be stabilized by the advantageous or neutral effects it has when in combination with another allele, enabling it to persist even if it is harmful in homozygous forms. This dynamic illustrates how allele dynamics can be complex, impacted by factors like heterozygosity, which mitigates potential pressures from selection. The overall effect is that allele G, while detrimental in homozygous individuals, can continue to exist within the population at low frequencies due to the presence of these heterozygotes.

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