Question

Why might the genetic systems observed to exhibit polymorphism associated with non?Mendelian segregation have unusual properties compared to the set of all drive systems that occur over long evolutionary time periods? In other words, do you expect the properties of polymorphic systems to be different from that of all drive systems. Why?

Answer 1

Polymorphism represents a non-Mendelian pattern of inheritance in which multiple forms of an organism can be seen within a species owing to differential accumulation of alleles/genes to control the trait. This causes ultimate failure of segregation of alleles and hence the various genotypic and phenotypic ratios deviate from normal Mendelina patterns. As a result, the individuals showing polymorphism usually have different physical/physiological properties as compared to the normal counterparts. Studies have shown that such alleles represent to serve as better mode of survivability as they better adapt to their respective environments. For example, high altitude dwellers generally have highly active polymorph of gene epo or erythropoeitin which helps them in producing more red blood cells, hence better survive under low oxygen availability.

Hence, presence of polymorphism indeed helps individuals to survive better as compared to their counterparts secondary to their unique properties.