What concept does gene flow refer to?

Gene flow refers to the transfer of genetic material between different populations, which can lead to changes in allele frequencies within those populations. This process occurs when individuals migrate from one population to another and interbreed, introducing new alleles into the gene pool. As a result, gene flow can reduce genetic differentiation between populations, increase genetic diversity, and influence overall evolutionary dynamics. It plays a critical role in maintaining genetic connectivity among populations, which can be particularly important for the survival and adaptability of species.

The other concepts listed relate to different aspects of population genetics and evolutionary mechanisms but do not accurately describe gene flow. The mixing of alleles within a single population pertains more to genetic drift or selective pressures rather than gene flow between distinct groups, while mutations are changes at the genetic level that occur within a population but do not involve the movement of genes. The survival of beneficial traits describes natural selection and is focused on the adaptation of species over time rather than the movement of alleles between populations.