Population Genetics MCAT Practice Question
Researchers examine three populations of the same species and calculate FST (fixation index) values comparing genetic variation within and between populations. Population pair 1 has FST = 0.02, pair 2 has FST = 0.15, and pair 3 has FST = 0.35. Which correctly ranks genetic differentiation between populations?
Answer choices
- APair 3 shows the greatest genetic differentiation; pair 1 shows the leastCorrect answer
- BPair 1 shows the greatest genetic differentiation; pair 3 shows the least
- CAll three pairs show equal genetic differentiation
- DPair 2 shows greater differentiation than both pair 1 and pair 3
- EFST values cannot be compared across different population pairs
- FHigh FST indicating similar allele frequencies with ongoing gene flow
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