The wheat leaf blotch pathogen (Mycosphaerella graminicola) is present in many parts of the world - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 34 - 2015 - Paper 1
Question 34
The wheat leaf blotch pathogen (Mycosphaerella graminicola) is present in many parts of the world. The spores of the pathogen can be carried on the wind and on expor... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The wheat leaf blotch pathogen (Mycosphaerella graminicola) is present in many parts of the world - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 34 - 2015 - Paper 1
Step 1
gene flow between populations.
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The comparison of RFLP gels between the 1980s and present day (2015) suggests increased similarity in the allele patterns across Europe, Israel, and America. This indicates that there has been gene flow between these populations, allowing for the exchange of genetic material.
Step 2
genetic drift in isolated populations.
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This option is less likely as genetic drift typically leads to increased divergence between isolated populations over time, whereas the data shows more similarity across locations.
Step 3
random mutations within populations.
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While random mutations occur, they typically contribute to within-population diversity rather than indicating connectivity between separate populations as suggested by the data.
Step 4
asexual reproduction of this pathogen.
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As asexually reproducing organisms can show clonal expansion, this does not explain the observed patterns of allele sharing between far-apart populations over time.
