Question

Briefly explain how the environment influences variation in populations

Answer 1

The environment plays a crucial role in influencing variation in populations through various mechanisms such as natural selection, genetic drift, and gene flow. Different environmental conditions, such as temperature, moisture, food availability, and predation pressure, can exert selective pressure on different traits within a population. This can lead to the survival and reproduction of individuals with specific traits that are better suited to their environment, ultimately resulting in the adaptation and evolution of populations over time. Additionally, factors like geographical barriers and habitat fragmentation can limit gene flow between populations, leading to genetic isolation and increased genetic variation. Overall, the environment plays a key role in shaping the genetic diversity and distribution of populations.