Question

What biological significance does the heterozygous genotype hold in populations at Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium?

Options

• It prevents all mutations from occurring

• It maintains a substantial potential source of genetic variability

• It eliminates the need for natural selection

• It represents the only source of evolution in populations

Answer 1

The heterozygous genotype (2pq) maintains a substantial potential source of genetic variability because it masks recessive alleles from environmental selection. This hidden genetic variation can be expressed in future generations through recombination, providing raw material for potential evolutionary changes.