In a population of 50 individuals, the initial heterozygosity (H₀) is 0.6. Assuming random genetic drift and an effective population size (Nₑ) of 25, calculate the expected heterozygosity after 5 generations using the formula Hₜ = H₀ \times \left(1 - \frac{1}{2Nₑ}\right)^{t}.
Answer
0.54
The correct answer is 0.54 — Round to two decimal places: Hₜ \approx 0.54.
Step-by-step solution
- Write the formula: Hₜ = H₀ \times (1 - 1/(2Nₑ))^{t}.
- Substitute Nₑ = 25, so 1/(2Nₑ) = 1/50 = 0.02.
- Compute the term in parentheses: 1 - 0.02 = 0.98.
- Raise to the power of t = 5: (0.98)^{5} \approx 0.9039.
- Multiply by H₀ = 0.6: Hₜ = 0.6 \times 0.9039 \approx 0.54234.
- Round to two decimal places: Hₜ \approx 0.54.
Common mistake: Using N instead of effective size Nₑ or forgetting to raise the term to the power of t.
Concept tested: Genetic drift and heterozygosity
Published · How this solution was prepared and checked
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