Genetic drift operates in `:`

Options

A. large isolated population
B. small isolated population
C. fast reproductive population
D. slow reproductive population

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Genetic Drift**: Genetic drift refers to the random changes in allele frequencies within a population. This process can lead to significant changes in the genetic makeup of small populations over time.

2. **Identifying the Characteristics of Genetic Drift**: Genetic drift is most pronounced in small populations where random events can have a larger impact on the overall genetic structure. In larger populations, these random changes tend to average out, making genetic drift less significant.

3. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Large Isolated Population**: In a large population, the effects of genetic drift are minimized because the larger gene pool buffers against random changes.
- **Small Isolated Population**: A small isolated population is more susceptible to genetic drift because random events can drastically alter allele frequencies.
- **Fast Reproductive Population**: Fast reproduction does not necessarily correlate with genetic drift; it can occur in both small and large populations.
- **Slow Reproductive Population**: Similar to fast reproductive populations, slow reproduction does not directly influence genetic drift.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, genetic drift operates most effectively in a small isolated population, where random changes can significantly impact allele frequencies.

**Final Answer**: Genetic drift operates in **small isolated populations**.

---