A SIMULATION OF THE FATE OF A MUTANT GENE OF NEUTRAL SELECTIVE VALUE IN A PRIMITIVE POPULATION

Publisher Summary The probability of loss or survival of a newly-arisen mutant gene is a basic parameter of population genetics. The simulation run continued as long as the mutant gene persisted in the population. The composition of the simulated population was printed on an annual basis. It is possible to trace the exact history of any mutant, and to analyze the factors influencing mutant extinction. This chapter describes the survival of a mutant gene in a computer simulation of a specific tribal-type population, using the model based on four interbreeding villages of the Yanomama Indians. The strategy of model formulation and testing has been to build a model that behaves as nearly as possible like the real population. Results from simulation runs with the model indicate it to be realistic and reliable, although certain improvements seem necessary.