Question:
The effective population size of a sexually reproducing, diploid, animal species will be highest when the sex ratio (number of reproducing males / number of reproducing females) is
The effective population size of a sexually reproducing, diploid, animal species will be highest when the sex ratio (number of reproducing males / number of reproducing females) is
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To maximize genetic diversity and effective population size, the sex ratio should ideally be 1:1.
Updated On: Dec 24, 2025
- 1
- 0.5
- 1.5
- 2
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The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
In population genetics, the effective population size depends on the ratio of males to females. The most balanced and genetically diverse population occurs when the sex ratio is 1:1.
Step 1: Analyzing the options.
- (A) 1: A 1:1 sex ratio is ideal because it ensures that both males and females contribute equally to the next generation, maximizing genetic diversity.
- (B) 0.5: A skewed sex ratio with more females than males reduces the number of potential matings and thus decreases genetic diversity.
- (C) 1.5: A slightly skewed ratio still does not maximize effective population size as efficiently as a 1:1 ratio.
- (D) 2: A 2:1 ratio where there are more males than females is also suboptimal as it reduces the number of female contributions to the gene pool.
Step 2: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (A), as the ideal sex ratio for the highest effective population size is 1:1.
Final Answer: (A) 1
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