Once a mutation occurs, the probability of it passing to the next generation or through a population is either random (via drift--in which case the probability moves toward 1 or 0) or follow any of a number of selection models. These models are based on the sorting of genes, or more inclusive sections of the genome called loci, within a population. The sorting of individual mutations follows the sorting of the loci they are located in.
I'm afraid that your buddy Dan doesn't quite believe you...
"The odds of the mutation appearing in subsequent offspring? The "expected value" is 100%, in a species that is neither growing significantly in population nor declining, although the actual results can vary from zero offspring carrying the gene, to a large number depending on the fecundity of the species. On average, though, the gene will be passed on to one offspring by each parent that carries it."
624 posted on 4/8/02 3:27 AM Central by Dan Day