What is the result of increased heterozygote frequency in a population?

Increased heterozygote frequency in a population typically leads to positive effects on genetic health for several reasons. Heterozygotes possess two different alleles for a particular gene, which can enhance the fitness of individuals within that population. This genetic variability often confers advantages such as greater adaptability to changing environments, improved resistance to diseases, and overall better survival and reproductive success.

For example, in cases of certain genetic disorders, being a heterozygote can provide a protective effect, as seen with sickle cell trait providing resistance to malaria. Furthermore, a higher frequency of heterozygotes can lead to a more resilient population, reducing the likelihood of genetic bottlenecks and inbreeding depression, which can arise in populations dominated by homozygotes.

This concept ties directly into the principles of genetic diversity, where a more diverse gene pool often correlates with a healthier and more robust population. In contrast, increased homozygosity—which results from lower heterozygous frequency—can lead to a decline in overall fitness and adaptability, making populations more vulnerable to environmental changes and diseases.