- Micro-evolution is the term used for changes in allele frequencies that occur over time.
A) Within a population at species level
B) within a community at genus level
C) due to appearance of new genes infections
D) due to mutation, natural selection, flow and genetic drift
Which of the following combinations is NOT appropriate?
(1) A and C (2) A and D
(3) B and C (4) B and DWhat Defines Microevolution?
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Occurs within a population at the species level
Microevolution is strictly about genetic changes within a single population or species—not across communities or genera. -
Driven by mutation, natural selection, gene flow, and genetic drift
These mechanisms alter allele frequencies and are the recognized forces behind microevolution.
What Does NOT Define Microevolution?
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Within a community at genus level
Microevolution does not refer to changes at the community or genus level; that domain belongs to macroevolution. -
Due to appearance of new gene infections
While new mutations can drive microevolution, the appearance of new gene infections is not a recognized mechanism in this context.
Evaluating the Options
Let’s analyze the combinations:
Statement Scientific Appropriateness A) Within a population at species level Appropriate (defines microevolution) B) Within a community at genus level NOT appropriate (macro not micro) C) Due to appearance of new gene infections NOT appropriate (not a recognized mechanism) D) Due to mutation, natural selection, flow and genetic drift Appropriate (mechanisms of microevolution) Now, look for the option that combines two statements that are NOT appropriate:
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(1) A and C: A is appropriate, C is not
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(2) A and D: Both are appropriate
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(3) B and C: Both are NOT appropriate
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(4) B and D: B is not appropriate, D is appropriate
Correct Answer
The combination that is NOT appropriate is:
(3) B and C
This is because microevolution does not occur at the community/genus level (B) and is not defined by the appearance of new gene infections (C). Microevolution is strictly about changes in allele frequencies within populations, driven by mutation, natural selection, gene flow, and genetic drift.
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