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The neutral theory of molecular evolution holds that most evolutionary changes occur at the molecular level, and most of the variation within and between species, are due to random genetic drift of mutant alleles that are selectively neutral.
- What does the neutral theory of molecular evolution contend?
- Why was neutral theory of molecular evolution important?
- What is an example of a neutral evolution?
- Why is neutral theory of molecular evolution different from Darwinism?
What does the neutral theory of molecular evolution contend?
The neutral theory of molecular evolution contends that at the molecular level, most evolutionary changes and polymorphisms within species are not caused by natural selection, but by random genetic drift. The theory was first put forward by M. Kimura in l968.
Why was neutral theory of molecular evolution important?
In the decades since its introduction, the neutral theory of evolution has become central to the study of evolution at the molecular level, in part because it provides a way to make strong predictions that can be tested against actual data.
What is an example of a neutral evolution?
Neutral evolution is characterized by the egalitarian nature of the propagation of selectively neutral mutants. For example, let us consider a bacterial plaque that is clonally formed.
Why is neutral theory of molecular evolution different from Darwinism?
The theory asserts that the majority of genetic variations within a species are neutral, meaning that do not positively or negatively impact the organism. It also suggests that the differences between and within species have evolved by neutral mechanisms, rather than Darwin's natural selection.
