Page 61 - CB1.3 Genetic Varation sciPAD

PHOTOCOPYING PROHIBITED
© Silverback Academic Media 61
CB 1.3 GENETIC VARIATION
GENETICS OF POPULATIONS
End of Chapter Review Questions
1. Mix and match the following terms and definitions.
Allele • • A specific characteristic or feature of an
organism.
Migration • • A permanent change in the DNA sequence
of a gene.
Natural selection • • When animals move from one population to
another.
Mutation • • The variety of genetic material within a
population or species.
Genetic variation • • An alternative form of a gene.
Trait • • An evolutionary process where beneficial
traits become more common in a population.
2. Complete the following paragraph using the word list provided.
less - temperature - most - environmental - more - alleles
Genetic variation is crucial for the long-term survival of populations. In a genetically
diverse population, there are various , (forms of a gene), present for
any given trait. This variation acts as a buffer against
changes and challenges.
If environmental conditions change (a shift in , altered food
sources, or new predators) a genetically diverse population is
likely to contain individuals who can cope with these changes. These individuals can then
pass on their advantageous traits to the next generation.
Populations with low genetic variation are likely to survive.
For example, if one individual is susceptible to a disease, it's likely that
individuals are also susceptible, putting the entire population at risk.
3. In New Zealand most pine tree plantations consist of cloned trees. This means each tree in
a plantation is genetically the same as all the other trees.
Suggest why this level of genetic variation could put the forest at risk. 





Unchecked Sample Pages
For Review Purposes Only - Photocopying Prohibited
www.scipad.co.nz