Question

in a population of seals, most of the seals have similar coloring. however, one seal has albinism. this seal is white and is almost completely blind. what is most likely the cause of this difference from the rest of the population?
gene flow
natural selection
gene mutation
genetic drift

Explanation:

• Gene flow involves the transfer of genes between populations, which is not indicated here as the problem is within a single seal population.
• Natural selection acts on existing genetic variation to favor traits that enhance survival and reproduction. But albinism (white color and blindness) is not a trait favored by natural selection in seals (as it may make the seal more visible to predators and the blindness is a disadvantage).
• Gene mutation can introduce new genetic variations. Albinism is often caused by a mutation in genes related to pigment production. A single - gene mutation can lead to such a distinct phenotype (white color and blindness) within a population.
• Genetic drift is a random change in allele frequencies, usually in small populations. But it doesn't explain the origin of a new trait like albinism; it just affects the frequency of existing alleles.

Answer:

C. gene mutation