What is microevolution?

Microevolution refers to small-scale changes in allele frequencies that occur within a population over time. This concept focuses on the genetic variations and shifts in the traits of a population rather than the broader changes that might lead to the emergence of new species or the impact on entire ecosystems. Microevolution can result from mechanisms such as natural selection, genetic drift, mutation, and gene flow, which all contribute to the gradual changes in a population's genetic structure. This makes it fundamental to understanding how species adapt and evolve in response to their environment on a relatively short timescale.