Novel Populations from Simulated Admixed Populations

Abstract

Admixtures of two relatively distinct populations; as a result of clashing, mixing, and merging; can drastically affect its population genetics. Studies have suggested that admixed populations are instrumental in establishing novel populations. Computer simulations is a common method to study population admixtures. Although it is plausible to study the emergence of novel populations from simulated admixed populations, studies in this area have been sparse. Here, we attempt to demonstrate the emergence of novel populations from admixed populations using simulation. Our results show that all admixed populations have the potential to result in the emergence of novel populations despite large majority (up to 90%) of one of the two source populations. The null hypothesis of no significant allelic changes can be rejected with a p-value of 5.3E-05. Therefore, our simulation study supports current studies suggesting that admixed populations are instrumental in establishing novel populations.