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About Dana Krempels, Ph.D.
Expertise
I can answer biology-related questions in the areas of evolution, zoology, botany, genetics, and ecology. But I don't answer homework questions or provide ideas for your science fair projects. So students please do your learning the right way by reading your text assignments and studying!

Experience
At the University of Miami, I teach Evolution and Biodiversity, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Ecology, and a variety of seminars (e.g., the Biology and Evolution of Human Gender Roles).

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Biology and an A.B. in English from the University of Southern California (1980). I earned my Ph.D. in Biology in the area of evolutionary biology/visual physiology from the University of Miami in 1989.

Past/Present Clients
I am currently an "expert" in both the "Rabbits" and "Wild Animals" categories.

You are here: Experts > Science > Biology > Biology > Length of time until new genetic mutations reveal themselves

Biology - Length of time until new genetic mutations reveal themselves

Expert: Dana Krempels, Ph.D. - 11/1/2009

Question
how long does it take for new/unique genetic expressions to reveal themselves in populations of animals?

Answer
Dear Charles,

That depends on the mutation. A dominant allele can manifest in the first generation, even if it's in just one individual. Whether the trait stays in the population depends not only on chance, but also whether the new trait is adaptive, maladaptive or neutral.

Many mutations are neutral, and are carried along for the ride because they do not affect phenotype in any obvious way.

So there is really no simple answer to your question: a new mutation can show up immediately, or if it is recessive, it can lie "hidden" in carriers until two such carriers mate and happen to produce an offspring who carries two versions of the recessive allele, and thus will express the trait.

Hope that helps.

Dana

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