Answer :
Answer:
Increases overall genetic variation
Explanation:
A high level of gene flow generally has two main effects on genetic diversity:
Increases overall genetic variation: When individuals or their reproductive materials (like pollen) move between populations, they bring with them their unique alleles (versions of genes). This injects new genetic variation into the receiving population, increasing the overall pool of genes available. This can be beneficial as it allows for more possible combinations of traits, which can be important for adaptation to changing environments.
Homogenizes populations: Over time, with continuous high gene flow, the allele frequencies in separate populations tend to become more similar. This is because the genes are constantly being mixed. This can reduce the genetic differentiation between populations, making them more alike genetically. In extreme cases, it can even hinder speciation (the formation of new species).
So, high gene flow is a double-edged sword for genetic diversity. It adds new variation but also homogenizes existing differences.
