Problem 5 - Campbell Biology

Question

Which of the following strategies would most rapidly increase the genetic diversity of a population in an extinction vortex? (A) Establish a reserve that protects the population's habitat. (B) Introduce new individuals transported from other populations of the same species. (C) Sterilize the least fit individuals in the population. (D) Control populations of the endangered population's predators and competitors.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Option B: Introduce new individuals transported from other populations of the same species.

Step 1: Understand the Question

Identify the main goal of the exercise, which is to determine the strategy that most rapidly increases genetic diversity in a population facing an extinction vortex.

Step 2: Analyze Each Option

Examine the potential impact of each strategy on the genetic diversity of the population.

Step 3: Option A - Establish a Reserve

Protecting the population's habitat can help preserve the existing population, but it doesn't introduce new genetic material, so it may not rapidly increase genetic diversity.

Step 4: Option B - Introduce New Individuals

Introducing new individuals from other populations means bringing in new genetic material, which should directly and rapidly increase genetic diversity.

Step 5: Option C - Sterilize the Least Fit Individuals

Sterilizing the least fit individuals reduces the breeding population but doesn’t introduce new genetic diversity.

Step 6: Option D - Control Predators and Competitors

Managing predators and competitors may help the endangered population grow, but it does not introduce new genetic material.

Step 7: Conclusion

Based on the analysis, the strategy that most rapidly increases genetic diversity is introducing new individuals transported from other populations of the same species.

Key Concepts

Extinction Vortex

An extinction vortex is a downwards spiral that species face when their populations decline and genetic diversity reduces. When a population becomes small, it loses genetic variation, making it harder for individuals to adapt to environmental changes. This lack of adaptability leads to even fewer individuals surviving, creating a self-perpetuating cycle of decline. The less genetic diversity, the more susceptible a population is to diseases, predation, and environmental changes.

To escape this vicious cycle, it’s crucial to increase genetic diversity rapidly. This means bringing in new genetic material to the population.

Population Genetics

Population genetics studies the genetic makeup and variation within populations. It explores how genetic diversity arises, how it is maintained, and its importance for a species' survival. Key factors in population genetics include:

• Mutation: introduces new genetic material
• Gene flow: involves the transfer of genes between populations
• Genetic drift: random changes in gene frequencies in small populations
• Selection: where certain traits become more common because they offer survival advantages

Increasing genetic diversity in populations helps ensure their adaptability and long-term survival.

Conservation Biology

Conservation biology is the science of protecting and preserving biodiversity. Its goals include maintaining healthy ecosystems, preventing species extinctions, and restoring habitats. Key strategies include:

• Establishing protected areas: preserves habitats
• Breeding programs: increases population sizes
• Translocation: moves individuals to increase genetic diversity
• Habitat restoration: improves existing conditions to support wildlife

Introducing new individuals to a population is a conservation biology strategy that can rapidly increase genetic diversity and aid in species recovery.

Genetic Diversity

Genetic diversity refers to the total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species. It is crucial for survival because it allows for:

• Better adaptation to environmental changes
• Resistance to diseases
• Greater reproductive success

Lack of genetic diversity can lead to inbreeding, where closely related individuals breed, increasing the chances of genetic disorders. The best way to boost genetic diversity rapidly is by introducing individuals from different populations, which brings in new genes.

Species Preservation

Species preservation focuses on preventing species from going extinct. This process includes a variety of methods to protect and recover endangered populations. Important methods include:

• Habitat protection: secures the natural environment
• Captive breeding programs: increases population sizes
• Legislation: enforces laws to protect endangered species
• Public awareness: educates people on the importance of biodiversity

In the case of an extinction vortex, the quickest method to preserve a species is to increase its genetic diversity by introducing new individuals from other populations.