Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium is known to be affected by gene flow, genetic drift, mutation, genetic recombination and

Options

A. evolution
B. limiting factors
C. saltation
D. natural selection.

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium**:
- The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium describes a state in a population where allele frequencies remain constant from generation to generation, indicating no evolution is occurring. This equilibrium is maintained under certain conditions, including random mating, no mutations, no gene flow, no genetic drift, and no natural selection.

2. **Identifying Factors Affecting Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium**:
- The factors that can disturb this equilibrium include:
- **Gene Flow**: Introduction of new alleles from other populations.
- **Genetic Drift**: Random changes in allele frequencies due to chance events.
- **Mutation**: Changes in DNA that introduce new alleles.
- **Genetic Recombination**: Mixing of alleles during reproduction that can alter allele frequencies.
- **Natural Selection**: Differential survival and reproduction based on advantageous traits.

3. **Analyzing the Question**:
- The question asks which factor can affect Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. From the factors listed, natural selection is a key process that leads to changes in allele frequencies over time, thus disturbing the equilibrium.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Among the options provided, **natural selection** is the correct answer as it causes directional changes in allele frequencies, preventing the population from maintaining Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium.