Evolution and speciation · USMLE Step 1

What is the consequence of gene flow between two previously isolated populations?

  1. Increased genetic differentiation
  2. Decreased genetic variation within each population
  3. Increased homogenization of allele frequencies
  4. Formation of a new species immediately
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Correct answer: Increased homogenization of allele frequencies

Gene flow (migration) introduces new alleles into a population or mixes gene pools between populations, which tends to homogenize allele frequencies and reduce divergence.

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