Abstract
We have studied allelic variation at 28 loci coding for soluble enzymes in three sibling species of Drosophila. The average proportion of polymorphic loci per population is 58% in D. willistoni, 71% in D. equinoxialis, and 60% in D. tropicalis. An individual of any one of these three species is heterozygous at 18–22% of its genes. The correlation between the amount of polymorphism at a given locus and the equilibrium constant of the reaction catalyzed by the corresponding enzyme is not significantly different from zero. We have separated enzymes into those involved in glucose metabolism (group I) and all other enzymes (group II). The genes coding for group II enzymes are about twice as polymorphic as those coding for group I enzymes.
Highlights
Recent studies have confirmed that natural populations of animals and plants have large amounts of genetic variation (Harris, 1970; Selander et al, 1970; Marshall and Allard, 1970; Kojima et al, 1970; Ayala et al, 1972; and references therein)
These studies are for the most part concerned with the genetic variation underlying variable enzyme patterns exhibited by gel electrophoresis
We summarize here our data about the genetic variation found in three sibling species, Drosophila willistoni, D. equinoxialis, and D. tropicalis
Summary
Recent studies have confirmed that natural populations of animals and plants have large amounts of genetic variation (Harris, 1970; Selander et al, 1970; Marshall and Allard, 1970; Kojima et al, 1970; Ayala et al, 1972; and references therein). These studies are for the most part concerned with the genetic variation underlying variable enzyme patterns exhibited by gel electrophoresis. Are there any general physiological reasons why some loci, in a given group of organisms, are more variable than others ? Some authors have suggested that such reasons exist
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
