Relationships between Mutations and Genetic Variation
The relationships between mutations and genetic variation are:
- Mutation is the source for new genetic variation: Genetic variation is brought about by random mutation. Without mutation, genetic variation cannot occur. Mutation is a change in the genetic code in DNA and can lead to a change in the protein that is coded for that segment of DNA. This can change in an individual’s characteristics which is classified as a genetic variation.
- They contribute to the survival of a particular species: Particular variations in genetic variation can be beneficial or non-beneficial. This goes the same for mutation. If a particular variation or mutation gives an individual an advantage for survival, they have an increased chance of survival and will live longer. If it does not, the individual will be weak or sick and have a very low chance of survival.
How does Meiosis contribute to Mutation?
Variation can also occur in Meiosis due to the recombination of the maternal and paternal chromosomes (this occurs during prophase I), and also due to the independent assortment of the chromosomes into the gametes. Because of this, each gamete will contain a different set of DNA. This will then produce a unique combination of genes in the resulting zygote. This reshuffling of genes into a unique combination of genes increases variation in a population and can explain why there are recognizable variations between siblings with the same parents.
The combination of gametes that fuse together during fertilization and the selection of a particular partner/mate can be other sources of variation.
The combination of gametes that fuse together during fertilization and the selection of a particular partner/mate can be other sources of variation.