What is gene flow?

Gene flow refers to the transfer of genetic material between populations. It occurs when individuals from one population migrate to another and breed, thereby introducing new alleles into the gene pool of the receiving population. This exchange can enhance genetic diversity and help maintain healthy populations by mixing genetic traits, which can lead to increased adaptability in changing environments.

This concept is crucial in understanding evolutionary processes and population genetics. Unlike the introduction of new mutations, which arise from changes in DNA sequence, or independent assortment during meiosis, which pertains specifically to how genetic material is shuffled during reproduction, gene flow involves actual movement and mixing of genetic material from different populations. Furthermore, selective breeding is a human-directed process aimed at enhancing specific traits, which is distinct from the natural dynamics of gene flow. Therefore, the correct identification of gene flow as the exchange of genetic material between populations emphasizes its role in the broader context of evolutionary biology.