Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Biology

Chapter

Evolution

Question:

Single step large mutations causing speciation are called:

Options:

Founders' Effect

Saltation

Genetic Drift

Gene flow

Correct Answer:

Saltation

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (2) → Saltation

In the first decade of twentieth century, Hugo deVries based on his work on evening primrose brought forth the idea of mutations – large difference arising suddenly in a population. He believed that it is mutation which causes evolution and not the minor variations (heritable) that Darwin talked about. Mutations are random and directionless while Darwinian variations are small and directional. Evolution for Darwin was gradual while deVries believed mutation caused speciation and hence called it saltation (single step large mutation).