Question

multiple select question
select all that apply
what are the five agents of evolutionary change, the mechanisms that can change the allele frequencies of a gene pool?
artificial selection
mutation
natural selection
genetic drift
random mating
gene flow
nonrandom mating
mate choice

Explanation:

• Mutation: Introduces new alleles into the gene pool.
• Natural selection: Favors alleles that enhance survival and reproduction.
• Genetic drift: Causes random changes in allele frequencies, especially in small populations.
• Gene flow: Occurs when alleles move between populations (e.g., through migration).
• Nonrandom mating: Affects allele frequencies (e.g., inbreeding or assortative mating).

Artificial selection is a human - driven form of selection but not one of the five main agents in the general evolutionary context (unless in a very specific domesticated species context). Random mating does not change allele frequencies (it is an assumption of Hardy - Weinberg equilibrium where allele frequencies remain constant). Mate choice is a part of nonrandom mating but not one of the five distinct agents.

Answer:

• Mutation
• Natural selection
• Genetic drift
• Gene flow
• Nonrandom mating