Genetic variations : The change in gene and gene frequencies is known as genetic variation. Genetic variations are caused by following factors:
(i) Mutations : Sudden permanent heritable change is called mutation. Mutation can occur in the gene, in the chromosome structure and in chromosome number. Mutation that occurs within the single gene is called point mutation or gene mutation. This leads to the change in the phenotype of the organism, causing variations.
(ii) Genetic recombination : In sexually reproducing organisms, during gamete formation, exchange of genetic material occurs between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes. This is called crossing over. It produces new genetic combinations which result in variation. Fertilization between opposite mating gametes leads to various recombinations resulting into the phenotypic variations. These result in change in the frequencies of alleles.
(iii) Gene flow : Gene flow is movement of genes into or out of a population. Gene movement may be in the form of migration of organism, or gametes (dispersal of pollens) or segments of DNA (transformation). Gene flow also alters gene frequency causing evolutionary changes.
(iv) Genetic drift : Any random fluctuation (alteration) in allele frequency, occurring in the natural population by pure chance, is called genetic drift. For example, when the size of a population is severely reduced due to natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, fires, etc. elimination of particular alleles from a population becomes possible. Smaller populations have greater chances for genetic drift. It results in the change in the gene frequency. Genetic drift is also an important factor for evolutionary change.
(v) Chromosomal aberrations : The structural, morphological change in chromosome due to rearrangement of genes is called chromosomal aberrations. Due to changes in the gene arrangement or gene sequence variations are caused.
