Understanding the Basic Principles of Population Genetics and its Application

Abstract

This paper examined the basic issues and applications of population genetics for clear understanding of the topic. Population genetics is a new field in science and as a result, many students find the concept difficult. Major areas treated included: definition of population genetics, gene pool, gene frequency, genetic equilibrium, genetic drift, natural selection, isolation and Hardy and Weinberg principle among others. Attempts were made to treat these listed concepts in relation to evolution because population genetics provided a great support to the idea of organic evolution. Ideal population as proposed by Hardy and Weinberg was treated and disruptive influences like mutation, natural selection etc that can affect it to cause evolution was also treated. Application of Hardy-Weinberg principle was discussed which helped to determine whether a population is in equilibrium or not and at the same time helps to predict the nature of a population in the next generation. Aspects of mating systems in a population that is, random mating and non random mating (like exogamy, endogamy etc) were also examined which are important socio-culturally, especially in terms of marriage. The students of biological sciences will benefit from the contents of this paper for understanding the topic.

Keywords: Definition of population genetics, concepts in population genetics, ideal population, Hardy-Weinberg principle, mating systems in a population, evolution.