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Question #46102
The Question
A critically endangered mammalian species is relocated from a fragmented biosphere reserve to a zoological park for a captive breeding program. Over several generations, the census population size triples. However, conservationists note a severe decline in the population's adaptive fitness upon reintroduction to the wild. Read the following statements regarding this scenario: I. The captive breeding program effectively increased the census population size but operated under a small effective population size (Ne). II. The relocated population escaped the genetic bottleneck effect due to the controlled, predator-free environment of the zoological park. III. Random fluctuations in allele frequencies (genetic drift) were magnified in captivity, leading to a loss of adaptive heterozygosity. IV. Ex-situ conservation inherently prevents inbreeding depression by utilizing advanced reproductive technologies like artificial insemination. Which of the above statements correctly explain the genetic consequences of this ex-situ conservation effort?
Options
- A.
Statements I and III only
- B.
Statements II and IV only
- C.
Statements I, II, and III only
- D.
Statements I and IV only
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Humification|Mineralization|Ecological Succession Climax
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often confuse numerical preservation (census size) with genetic preservation (effective population size).
A common misconception is that a predator-free, controlled environment (ex-situ) eliminates evolutionary pressures like genetic drift.
In reality, the small founder population in ex-situ conservation accelerates genetic drift and inbreeding, leading to a loss of adaptive heterozygosity despite an increasing total population.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Biodiversity and Conservation - Class 12 |
| Concept | World Summit on Sustainable Development |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |