2023TrialShort answer

Q22 (c)

3 marks

Question

The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is a vulnerable species of large cat, known for being the fastest land animal. Since the 19th century, it is estimated that the cheetah population has declined from 100,000 to approximately 8,000 cheetahs. The cheetah faces extinction due to climate change, hunting by humans and habitat destruction. They also have a low rate of reproductive success.

Explain how information gained through DNA profiling of cheetah populations can help direct efforts to conserve them.

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Solution

Criteria	Marks
States that DNA profiling measures diversity; explains the importance of genetic diversity for conservation; and relates the method to a cheetah conservation issue.	3
Provides two of the above.	2
Provides one of the above.	1

Sample answer:

Genetic diversity is a critical factor in determining whether or not a population of organisms can survive. DNA profiling can give an indication of the diversity within a population. A highly diverse population is better able to survive climate change or disease, as genetic diversity should ensure variation in the ability of individuals to resist or survive the disease.
Small populations in fragmented habitats are likely to experience a drop in genetic diversity through genetic drift.
Conservation authorities can use profiling to measure genetic diversity, and having identified populations with low diversity can take steps to move individuals from other populations to increase that diversity.

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Syllabus alignment

Module 5 · Heredity

Inheritance Patterns in a PopulationAnalyse large-scale population genetics data for conservation, disease inheritance or human evolution.
Inheritance Patterns in a PopulationInvestigate DNA sequencing and profiling technologies used to determine inheritance patterns.

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