Which statement about inbreeding is correct in the context of evolution and natural selection?

• A. Inbreeding always results in stronger offspring.
• B. Inbreeding increases genetic diversity within a population.
• C. Inbreeding can lead to an increased expression of deleterious recessive traits.
• D. Inbreeding prevents the occurrence of genetic drift.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of inbreeding: Inbreeding refers to the mating of closely related individuals within a population. This can lead to a higher probability of offspring inheriting identical alleles from both parents.
2. Consider the genetic implications: Inbreeding often results in a decrease in genetic diversity because the gene pool is limited to closely related individuals. This can lead to a higher chance of recessive alleles being expressed.
3. Evaluate the expression of recessive traits: In a population where inbreeding occurs, recessive traits that may be deleterious can become more common. This is because there is a higher likelihood of offspring inheriting two copies of a recessive allele.
4. Analyze the impact on evolution and natural selection: Inbreeding can affect the evolutionary process by increasing the expression of harmful traits, which may reduce the overall fitness of the population.
5. Clarify misconceptions: Inbreeding does not prevent genetic drift; rather, it can exacerbate the effects of genetic drift by reducing genetic variation, making populations more susceptible to changes in allele frequencies due to random events.