Question

7.         Describe how genetic variation might be measured in a species.

7a. Whats the theories that are used to explain evolutionary altruism.

Answer 1

Genetic variation is the measure of variation existing in the genetic makeup of individuals of a species and is often termed as genetic diversity. It is often measured as a percentage of gene loci in the individuals that are heterozygous.

Many theories have been given to explain evolutionary altruism.

a) Descent of man and selection in relation to sex in 1871 by Charles Darwin explained that group selection is the reason of evolution.

b) 1960's Richard Dawkins explained that natural selection is the main reason of evolution.

c) Kin selection in 1960's and 1970's by W. D. Hamilton where inclusive fitness was the major contributor to evolution.

d) 1971 Reciprocal altruism by Robert Trivers where an animal is likely to help the other animal if they expect to get helped soon later in life.