Population Genetics MCAT Practice Question
A population of fruit flies exhibits a stable allele frequency for eye color across generations. Researchers observe no mutations, migration, or mating preferences affecting this trait. The population size is large and random mating occurs. Which of the following best explains the constant allele frequencies observed?
Answer choices
- BGenetic drift is stabilizing the allele frequencies
- CThe population satisfies Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium conditionsCorrect answer
- ANatural selection is actively maintaining the allele frequencies
- DGene flow from neighboring populations is preventing change
- EHeterozygote advantage is maintaining both alleles
- FBalancing selection is maintaining the polymorphism through frequency-dependent selection
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