“Microevolution is evolution on a small scale, within a [shared gene pool] population” (Berkeley 2006). The shared gene pool experiences genetic changes that can create differences within a species. These genetic differences are inherited from one or both parents. Genes are either lost or combined differently and can result in things such as different hair color, longer legs or bigger ears. There are four processes that contribute to microevolution: 1. Mutation – a physical change in a gene. An example of mutation is bacteria mutating into an antibiotic resistant strain or an insect developing resistance to insecticide “The force of mutation is the ultimate source of new genetic variation within populations” (Wade 2005). 2. Gene Migration – movement of a population to breed or feed, which impacts the occurrence of gene varieties. Pollen is an example as it is carried by insects or through the wind to other populations. “Migration limits the genetic divergence of populations and so impedes the process of speciation” (Wade 2005). …show more content…
Genetic Drift – removes gene variation from a population eventually leading to genetic uniformity. (Wikipedia Microevolution 2014). Genetic drift constrains genetic variety, royalty inbreeding is an example within a small population. 4. Natural Selection – species no longer tolerate their environment and do not reproduce or survive. An example of this could be tree monkeys that never touch the ground for food are forced, after all the trees die, to survive and reproduce or die off on the ground. “Natural selection is the only evolutionary force which can produce adaption” (Wade 2005). “Among the evolutionary forces, natural selection has long been privileged in evolutionary studies because of its crucial role in adaptation” (Wade