genodeme

A genodeme is a concept in population genetics referring to a population that is defined by its genetic characteristics. It is a subdivision of a species, characterized by having a distinct gene pool that differentiates it from other populations of the same species. This genetic distinctiveness can arise through various evolutionary mechanisms, such as geographic isolation, genetic drift, or differential selection pressures.

The term genodeme emphasizes the genetic makeup of a population as the primary defining feature. While other concepts like deme, ecad, or ecodeme might focus on morphological, ecological, or geographical aspects, a genodeme is specifically about the aggregate of genes and their frequencies within a particular group of interbreeding organisms.

Identifying genodemes often involves studying allele frequencies of various genes within different populations. If significant differences in these frequencies are observed between populations, they may be considered distinct genodemes. This concept is useful for understanding evolutionary processes, such as speciation, and for managing genetic diversity within species, particularly in conservation efforts. The boundaries of a genodeme are not always sharp and can be fuzzy, with some gene flow potentially occurring between adjacent genodemes.