Muller's ratchet is the
A) breaking down of adaptive combinations of genes by recombination.
B) elimination of deleterious mutations through sexual reproduction.
C) maintenance of genetic variation via disruptive selection.
D) crossing over and independent assortment of chromosomes during meiosis.
E) accumulation of deleterious mutations in asexual lineages.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Muller's ratchet refers to the accumulation of deleterious mutations in asexual lineages, leading to the gradual deterioration of the population's fitness. This process is not present in sexual reproduction because recombination and crossing over can break apart the deleterious mutations and lead to their elimination in subsequent generations. Therefore, option E is the best answer.

Muller's Ratchet Is the