Question

question 1-11
genetic studies analyzing cheetah populations have determined that the lack of genetic diversity among the cheetahs is due to genetic drift. which statement explains the most likely consequence of having a low genetic diversity on the cheetah population?

• the chances of a mutation occurring in the cheetah population are decreased, increasing the cheetah survival rate.
• the cheetah population becomes less likely to survive an outbreak of a disease or an environmental change.
• the gene pool remains in equilibrium and future generations of cheetah offspring are stronger and better adapted to their environments.
• genetic variability is maintained from older cheetah populations that have survived and endured environmental stressors.

Explanation:

To determine the most likely consequence of low genetic diversity in cheetah populations, we analyze each option:

• Option 1 (The chances of a mutation...): Low genetic diversity typically reduces variation, so mutations are less likely to increase survival rates (incorrect).
• Option 2 (The cheetah population becomes less likely...): Low genetic diversity means fewer unique traits to combat diseases or environmental changes, increasing vulnerability (correct).
• Option 3 (The gene pool remains in equilibrium...): Low diversity implies a small gene pool, making equilibrium unlikely (incorrect).
• Option 4 (Genetic variability is maintained...): Low diversity means variability is reduced, not maintained (incorrect).

Answer:

The cheetah population becomes less likely to survive an outbreak of a disease or an environmental change.