Population Genetics Simulations

Population Genetics Simulations Visually

Explore population genetics - the study of genetic variation within populations and how this variation changes over time. Learn through interactive visualizations, simulations, and detailed examples.

Population Genetics Allele Frequency Genotype Distribution Hardy-Weinberg Principle Genetic Drift Gene Flow Visual Simulation

What is Population Genetics?

Population genetics is the study of genetic variation within populations and how this variation changes over time. It combines Mendelian inheritance with statistical analysis to understand evolutionary processes such as natural selection, genetic drift, gene flow, and mutation.

Population Genetics Processes

Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium

Interactive visualization showing allele frequency changes under Hardy-Weinberg conditions

Genetic Drift Simulation

Visualization of genetic drift in small populations over generations

Interactive Population Genetics Simulation

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Process Steps

1

Define Population

Identify the group of interbreeding individuals of the same species.

2

Measure Allele Frequencies

Determine the frequency of different alleles in the population.

3

Apply Evolutionary Forces

Model the effects of selection, drift, mutation, and gene flow.

4

Calculate New Frequencies

Compute allele frequencies for the next generation.

5

Analyze Changes

Compare frequencies across generations to detect evolution.

Population Genetics Calculators

Hardy-Weinberg Calculator

Genotype Frequencies:

Enter values and click calculate to see results

Effective Population Size Calculator

Result:

Enter parameters and click calculate to see results

Differences from Related Fields

Population Genetics vs. Classical Genetics

Population Genetics: Studies genetic variation within and between populations, focusing on allele frequencies and evolutionary processes.

Classical Genetics: Focuses on inheritance patterns in individuals and families, typically following Mendel's laws.

Population Genetics vs. Molecular Genetics

Population Genetics: Examines genetic variation at the population level and its evolutionary implications.

Molecular Genetics: Studies the structure and function of genes at the molecular level.

Population Genetics vs. Quantitative Genetics

Population Genetics: Focuses on discrete genetic variants and their frequencies.

Quantitative Genetics: Studies continuously varying traits influenced by multiple genes and environment.

Real-World Examples

Example: Industrial Melanism in Peppered Moths

The peppered moth (Biston betularia) is a classic example of population genetics in action. Before the Industrial Revolution, light-colored moths were more common because they were better camouflaged against lichen-covered trees. As pollution darkened the trees, dark-colored moths became more prevalent due to natural selection.

Genetic Basis:

  • Color is determined by alleles at a single gene locus
  • Dark allele (D) is dominant over light allele (d)
  • Change in selection pressure altered allele frequencies

Result: The frequency of the dark allele increased significantly in polluted areas, demonstrating evolution in real-time.

Example: Sickle Cell Trait and Malaria Resistance

The sickle cell allele (HbS) provides resistance to malaria in heterozygous individuals (HbA/HbS), but causes sickle cell disease in homozygous individuals (HbS/HbS). This creates a balanced polymorphism where both alleles are maintained in populations where malaria is common.

Population Genetics Principles:

  • Heterozygote advantage maintains genetic variation
  • Geographic variation in allele frequencies
  • Selection pressure affects allele frequencies

Result: High frequencies of HbS allele in malaria-endemic regions, demonstrating the balance between selection pressures.

Example: Founder Effect in Amish Communities

Small founding populations like the Amish have higher frequencies of certain rare genetic disorders due to the founder effect. A small group with specific allele frequencies establishes a new population, leading to different genetic patterns than the source population.

Population Genetics Principles:

  • Genetic drift in small populations
  • Founder effect altering allele frequencies
  • Reduced genetic diversity

Result: Elevated frequencies of Ellis-van Creveld syndrome, polydactyly, and other rare disorders in Amish populations.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does the Hardy-Weinberg principle state?

2. Which is NOT an assumption of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?

3. What is genetic drift?

4. Which factor would most likely cause the largest genetic drift?

5. What is gene flow?

6. Which evolutionary force tends to increase genetic variation within populations?

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