Claim CB120:
The overall effect of mutations is to lower the viability of populations,
due to the "genetic load," or genetic burden, that they add to the gene
pool.
Source:
Morris, Henry M., 1974. Scientific Creationism, Green Forest, AR: Master
Books, 56-57.
Response:
- As new harmful mutations enter the population, selection removes
existing harmful traits. The genetic load of a stable population is an
equilibrium between the two.
- Bacteria mutate much faster than plants and animals do, yet their
populations are not becoming less viable.
created 2003-6-9
