Gene pool

Gene pool is the total number of genes of every individual in an interbreeding population. It can be used to represent the genetic diversity found within a population of interbreeding individuals. In other words, it is the total genetic information available in a population.

Overview

A large gene pool indicates high genetic diversity, increased chances of biological fitness, and survival. A small gene pool can lead to reduced biological fitness and an increased chance of extinction, with inbreeding leading to health problems such as genetic disorders.

Genetic Variation

Genetic variation is a measure of the genetic differentiation among individuals within a population. Variation in the gene pool is what enables natural selection to occur. Genetic variation is caused by random mutations and can be either beneficial, harmful, or neutral.

Genetic Drift

Genetic drift is a change in the frequency of an existing gene variant in a population due to random sampling and chance. This can lead to the elimination of an allele from a population, reducing genetic variation.

Gene Flow

Gene flow is the transfer of genetic variation from one population to another. If the rate of gene flow is high enough, then two populations are considered to have equivalent gene pools.

See Also

• Population genetics
• Evolution
• Natural selection
• Mutation
• Genetic diversity