The Tibetans and Han Chinese share several genetic traits and DNA. However, the EPAS1 gene, which increases the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen even in low oxygen environments, is only commonly found in the Tibetan population that live in higher elevations Explain why this gene is only common in Tibetan populations from the perspective of competitive advantage and natural selection. Write your answer in three to five sentences
The EPAS1 gene provides a significant advantage to individuals living at high elevations, such as Tibetans, where oxygen levels are lower. This gene allows for more efficient oxygen transport in the body, leading to better adaptation to the low oxygen environment. Therefore, individuals with the EPAS1 gene are more likely to survive and reproduce at high elevations, passing on this advantageous gene to future generations. This natural selection process has led to the prevalence of the EPAS1 gene specifically in the Tibetan population.
