Are all mutations bad for the organism? Use examples to support your claim.

Answer 1

Not all mutations are bad for organisms. In fact, some mutations can be neutral or even beneficial.

One example of a neutral mutation is the mutation that causes the shape of a person's earlobe to vary. This mutation does not have a significant impact on the individual's fitness or survival, so it is considered neutral.

An example of a beneficial mutation is the sickle cell mutation, which provides a degree of resistance to malaria. Individuals who have one copy of the sickle cell gene are less likely to develop severe malaria, giving them a survival advantage in regions where the disease is prevalent.

Overall, mutations are a natural part of genetic variation and can have a range of effects on organisms. While some mutations can be harmful and lead to genetic disorders, others can be neutral or beneficial and contribute to the diversity of life on Earth.