How does polymorphism reflect diversity?

Question

tim · Answer

I believe that polymorphism is essentially the manifestation of the concept of diversity manifest. So polymorphism would be when there are 2 or more phenotypes exist concurrently within the same species

anonymous · Answer

A genetic polymorphism is where there are two or more genotypes present at a stable level in a population.  The simplest example of this is a SNP; a single nucleotide polymorphism.  This is manifest where individuals can have different bases at a specific point in their DNA.  

For example person 1 has a A where person 2 has a G.  To be a polymorphism this change has to be stable in the population (i.e. not just a random mutation which doesn't persist for more than one generation).  

I believe if more than 5% have the minor genotype (G rather than A as per our example above) then the locus can be referred to as a polymorphism.

anonymous · Answer

Various bloodtypes and sexual orientation (male/female), cast systems? The articIe I read talked about the status in a bee colony. I would compare that to a cast system in society, but it may not be the right choice. To me, that is not Diversity, it is where you are stuck..as in your placement or job in a bee colony. Diversity to me is being accepted, not being forced to be an ant who has a job you are stuck with because that is where you are born.