The Competition simulation explores the competitive exclusion principle using two species that share a food source. This simulation allows for student inquiry.

In this simulation, the user can study the competitive exclusion principle. The population of two species with a shared food source can be studied in a simple ecosystem individually and together. Click the “Introduction” button to read more information about the scenario, then set the variables and click “Run Simulation” to start. Complete the accompanying worksheet (A or B) through a data collection procedure and include follow-up questions about the competitive exclusion principle in a lab setting and in ecosystems. Check out the blog for more discussion of this simulation and the competitive exclusion principle. See file attached.

https://www.biologysimulations.com/competition

Simulation 2.

The Mutation simulation is based on a bacterial mutagenesis lab. Students can study the effect that UV exposure time has on bacteria survival and mutation rates.

Mutation

This activity simulates a bacterial mutagenesis lab. The user can select the UV irradiation time and then plate the bacterial suspension on a control plate and a plate that includes an antibiotic in the growth medium. The control plate will indicate the number of bacteria that survived the UV exposure. The antibiotic plate will produce data indicative of the number of bacteria that have mutations resulting in resistance to the antibiotic.

For more information about the effects of UV exposure and UV-induced mutations, see the mutation simulation blog post. Run the simulation program and complete the worksheet. There is also a Google doc format available. See file attached.

https://www.biologysimulations.com/mutation

Simulation 3.

Population Genetics allows students to test how selection, population size, and mutation rates affect allele frequencies.

Population Genetics

Population genetics is the study of genetic variation in populations. This simulation allows the user to observe the frequencies of two alleles over time. A population that does not experience change over time is said to be in genetic equilibrium, while changes represent evolution. Genetic drift, natural selection, and mutation can be tested using this simulation. The Resources page and Google Drive have a few options for student labs. See the population genetics evolution blog post for additional information about the set-up of the simulation.

Run the simulation and complete the worksheets.