How does artificial selection impact population genetics?

Artificial selection impacts population genetics primarily by decreasing genetic variability within a population. This occurs because artificial selection involves humans choosing specific traits for breeding, which tends to favor individuals with particular characteristics while simultaneously reducing the reproductive success of individuals with alternative traits. As a result, the genetic pool becomes narrower, leading to reduced diversity.

Over time, this selective pressure can lead to a phenomenon known as "genetic bottleneck," where the overall genetic variation is diminished due to the limited number of individuals contributing to the gene pool. The reduced genetic variability can make populations more susceptible to diseases, environmental changes, and other factors that threaten their survival, as there is less genetic diversity to draw upon for adaptation.

In contrast, processes suggested in other options, such as random alterations of gene frequencies, increased mutation rates, or having no effect on genetics, do not accurately describe the outcome of artificial selection. Instead, artificial selection is characterized by intentional, directed breeding choices resulting in a clearer reduction in genetic variability within the selected population.