Genetic equilibrium

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In theory, genetic equilibrium is a state in which a population is not evolving.

[edit] Assumptions For Genetic Equilibrium

• No gene mutations
• Large population size
• Isolated population (away from other populations of the same species)
• Gene of interest has no effect on survival or reproduction
• Mating is random

Rarely, if ever, do all five conditions prevail at the same time in nature. Gene mutation is infrequent but inevitable. Three processes may drive a population away from genetic equilibrium--natural selection, gene flow, and genetic drift.

Deer and mice have high amounts of genetic equilibrium.

When a population has reached genetic equilibrium, that means that the species will stop evolving and will stay in its present form.

Compare to: Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium

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