Fruit Fly Experiment

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The results of the fruit fly (Drosphila melanogaster) experiment undertaken are important for numerous reasons. Firstly, the results obtained give statistical insight into what the data values are showcasing in this experiment. The outcomes being depicted from a mathematical point of view makes it easier to comprehend. This laboratory activity demonstrates how count data gives a much better understanding of statistics (especially for genetics and evolution). It is better to obtain results from appropriate statistics rather than making conclusions based on data such as random sexual relations, genetic and evolutionary change and diversity of the fruit fly species. Secondly, the results summarize the data into an interpretation that is to the …show more content…

The data obtained confirms that there is a significant difference in expected and obtained allele frequencies, which results in the conclusion that the populations of fruit flies disrespect the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium because of the sexual selection and/or genetic drift genetic factors. The system is closed; meaning that there is no migration, nor gene flow and natural selection, due to how no offspring die off from a lack of reproductive fitness. Moreover, mutation is not a disruptive force here, since it seems that there is no harsh environmental conditions that would bring about such an effect. Under small populations, the visible impacts of genetic drift can be observed. The small population size of the fruit flies reflects how random chance of genetic drift caused the significant difference conclusion of our …show more content…

An experiment like this one is credible for creating an example on the different aspects of genetics in relation with evolution, which is a great outcome. Another positive outcome is how the experiment upholds fundamental principles of biology; how it is random and unplanned for the most part, yet explainable. Another positive consequence is how this experiment can be undertaken on a diverse range of animals and insects, which can either yield similar results, or different results altogether, which could then lead to research on evolutionary relationships of males and females of the given species in question. In spite of all the positive aspects, there are some negative ones as well. These sorts of studies can be used to advance societal understanding and growth, but this may tread on ethical boundaries for some. A sizeable issue with this experiment is how one can argue that the experiment is not right for the fruit flies, nor animals that are being studied, since they are being selectively grown and harvested. The animal rights activist would argue that the animals have no idea as to where they will end up. Another big negative is how experiments should not be used to play God and defy laws that are an ‘unavoidable reality’, but rather to uphold key concepts and to explain naturally occurring biological phenomena. The second issue is that one should not

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