In a hypothetical population's gene pool, an autosomal gene, which had previously been fixed, undergoes a mutation that introduces a new allele, one inherited according to incomplete dominance. Natural selection then causes stabilizing selection at this locus. Consequently, what should happen over the course of many generations?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Stabilizing selection favors the heterozygous state and opposes both homozygous genotypes. Therefore, over time, both types of homozygotes should decrease in frequency, while the proportion of the population that is heterozygous should increase. This will lead to an increase in the population's average heterozygosity. Therefore, the correct choice is (E), both (A) and (C).

In a Hypothetical Population's Gene Pool, an Autosomal Gene, Which