In prokaryotes, new mutations accumulate quickly in populations, while in eukaryotes, new mutations accumulate much more slowly. The primary reasons for this are ________.
A) prokaryotes have short generation times and large population sizes
B) prokaryotes have random mutations while eukaryotes can target genes for mutations; thus mutations may not accumulate as quickly in eukaryotes, but they are more useful to the organism
C) the DNA in prokaryotes is not as stable as eukaryotic DNA and is thus more likely to mutate
D) prokaryote mutations are less effective than eukaryote mutations in providing variation for evolution

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Prokaryotes have short generation times (i.e. quick reproduction) and large population sizes. This means that there are more opportunities for mutations to occur in a given amount of time and a larger number of individuals in which mutations can accumulate. Eukaryotes typically have longer generation times and smaller population sizes, leading to a slower accumulation of mutations.

In Prokaryotes, New Mutations Accumulate Quickly in Populations, While in Eukaryotes