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The population of koalas on French Island A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 30 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 30
The population of koalas on French Island A. will show more variation in traits than the populations in New South Wales. B. will have the same number of alleles ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The population of koalas on French Island A - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 30 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
C. may be vulnerable to future changes in selective pressures acting on the population.
Answer
Choosing option C is informed by the understanding of population genetics. The isolation of the koala population on French Island may restrict genetic diversity, making them more susceptible to selective pressures such as changes in habitat, climate, or disease. Small populations often face the risk of inbreeding, which diminishes genetic diversity and adaptive potential, ultimately increasing vulnerability to environmental changes and emerging threats.