In a diploid population of 150 individuals the initial heterozygosity H₀ is 0.68. The effective population size Nₑ is 30. Assuming random genetic drift, what is the expected heterozygosity after 8 generations? Use H_t = H₀(1 - 1/(2Nₑ))^t.
Answer
H₈ ≈ 0.47
The correct answer is H₈ ≈ 0.47 — Round to two decimal places, giving approximately 0.47.
Step-by-step solution
- Write the drift factor: 1 - 1/(2Nₑ) = 1 - 1/(2×30) = 1 - 1/60 = 59/60.
- Raise the factor to the power of t (8 generations): (59/60)^8 ≈ 0.695 (using a calculator).
- Multiply by the initial heterozygosity: H₈ = 0.68 × 0.695 ≈ 0.4726.
- Round to two decimal places, giving approximately 0.47.
Common mistake: Using N instead of effective size Nₑ in the drift factor
Concept tested: Effect of genetic drift on heterozygosity
Published · How this solution was prepared and checked
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