Question

what can result when a small group of related individuals forms a new, isolated population? select all that apply.

• founder effect
• decreased likelihood of fixed alleles
• inbreeding
• increased gene flow

Explanation:

Analyze the scenario

The question asks what can result when a small group of related individuals forms a new, isolated population. This scenario describes a classic evolutionary event where a small subset of a larger population migrates or becomes geographically isolated.

Evaluate "Founder effect"

When a small group of individuals colonizes a new area and establishes an isolated population, the genetic makeup of this new population is determined by the alleles of the founding members. This is the definition of the founder effect, which is a specific type of Genetic Drift. Therefore, this option is correct.

Evaluate "Decreased likelihood of fixed alleles"

In small, isolated populations, genetic drift has a much stronger effect. Alleles are lost or fixed much more rapidly by chance alone compared to large populations. Thus, there is an increased likelihood of fixed alleles, not a decreased likelihood. This option is incorrect.

Evaluate "Inbreeding"

Because the founding group is small and consists of "related individuals," mating between close relatives (inbreeding) is highly likely to occur over generations. This increases homozygosity within the isolated population. Therefore, this option is correct.

Evaluate "Increased gene flow"

Since the new population is described as "isolated," there is little to no movement of alleles into or out of the population. This means Gene Flow is decreased or non-existent, not increased. This option is incorrect.

Answer:

• Founder effect (Correct answer)
• Decreased likelihood of fixed alleles
• Inbreeding (Correct answer)
• Increased gene flow