In a population of deer there are two alleles, p and q. Individuals with allele p are faster than those with allele q and so are better at avoiding predation by wolves. Explain how natural selection will affect the characteristics of the deer population.

In the population, there is genetic variation with some individuals possessing allele p and some possessing allele q. Predation by wolves acts as a selection pressure on the genetic variation in the population. Individuals with allele p are less likely to be killed by wolves and so are more likely to survive to reproduce than individuals with allele q. This means p individuals have a higher reproductive success than q individuals. Over many generations the proportion of the population possessing allele p will increase and more individuals will be able to run at the faster speed. This change in allele frequency and subsequent change in the running speed of the population is known as evolution by natural selection.

Answered by Harrison O. Biology tutor

2371 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the series of events at a synapse between 2 neurons.


How is insulin secretion controlled?


How do humans and other mammals keep homeostasis of their body temperature?


Explain multiple alleles with respect to ABO blood group in humans


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences