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Ch. 24 - The Origin of Species
Campbell - Campbell Biology 12th Edition
Urry12th EditionCampbell BiologyISBN: 9785794169850Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 24, Problem 1

The largest unit within which gene flow can readily occur is a
a. Population.
b. Species.
c. Genus.
d. Hybrid.

Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of gene flow: Gene flow refers to the transfer of genetic material between populations of the same species, which can occur through various mechanisms such as migration or the movement of individuals.
Identify the biological hierarchy: In biological classification, the hierarchy from smallest to largest is species, genus, family, order, class, phylum, kingdom, and domain.
Consider the definition of a species: A species is a group of individuals that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. This is the largest unit where gene flow can naturally and readily occur.
Differentiate between the options: A population is a group of individuals of the same species living in a specific area, a genus is a group of related species, and a hybrid is an offspring resulting from the cross-breeding of two different species.
Conclude that the largest unit within which gene flow can readily occur is a species, as it encompasses all populations of that species capable of interbreeding.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Gene Flow

Gene flow refers to the transfer of genetic material between populations or species, which can occur through various mechanisms such as migration or breeding. It is a crucial process for maintaining genetic diversity and can influence evolutionary changes within populations.
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Gene Flow

Species

A species is the largest group within which gene flow can readily occur, as members of a species can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. This concept is central to understanding biological classification and the boundaries of genetic exchange.
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Biological Species Concept

Population

A population is a group of individuals of the same species living in a specific area, capable of interbreeding. While gene flow can occur within populations, it is limited to the members of that population, making it a smaller unit compared to a species.
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The Human Population