The Impact of Gene Flow on Species Diversity and Evolution

The video explains the concept of gene flow, which is the transfer of genes between individuals in a species, contributing to diversity. It highlights Charles Darwin's study of finches on South American islands, showing how physical barriers can lead to species divergence. The video emphasizes the importance of gene flow in maintaining species homogeneity and preventing extinction.

What is gene flow primarily responsible for in a species?

• Causing extinction

• Eliminating genetic diversity

• Maintaining genetic diversity

• Creating new species

How do genes influence individual traits?

• They make individuals identical to their parents

• They have no effect on individual traits

• They cause individuals to be exactly like their siblings

• They result in unique traits for each individual

What is the result of continuous gene flow within a population?

• The population becomes more diverse

• The population becomes less diverse

• The population goes extinct

• The population splits into different species

What did Charles Darwin observe about finches on different islands?

• They became extinct

• They migrated back to the mainland

• They developed different beak sizes based on available food

• They all had the same beak size

How did the ocean act in Darwin's study of finches?

• As a facilitator of gene flow

• As a source of food for finches

• As a barrier preventing gene flow

• As a habitat for finches

What happens to species when gene flow is interrupted by a barrier?

• They diverge into different species

• They become more homogeneous

• They immediately go extinct

• They remain unchanged

What can happen to a species if gene flow stops completely?

• It remains unchanged

• It may eventually go extinct

• It becomes identical to another species

• It becomes more homogeneous

Why is gene flow important for the survival of a species?

• It prevents all forms of evolution

• It causes species to become extinct

• It ensures species remain identical

• It maintains genetic diversity and adaptability

What role does gene flow play in human diversity?

• It allows for a variety of traits within the human race

• It causes humans to become different species

• It makes all humans identical

• It has no impact on human diversity

What is the significance of gene flow in the context of evolution?

• It prevents any evolutionary changes

• It causes immediate extinction

• It allows for adaptation and survival

• It has no significance