Yes, there is evidence of inbreeding on Tangier Island.
Understanding Genetic Patterns on Tangier Island
Research indicates the presence of inbreeding within the population of Tangier Island. This finding is supported by the calculation of an average inbreeding coefficient, a key genetic measure.
The average inbreeding coefficient observed on Tangier Island is 0.00873. This metric is consistent with what is typically found in populations that experience genetic isolation. Such isolation often leads to a higher degree of relatedness among individuals within a community, contributing to a measurable level of inbreeding.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Inbreeding Coefficient | 0.00873 |
The observed inbreeding coefficient on Tangier Island aligns with patterns reported in other isolated human populations globally, where limited gene flow from external sources can lead to a more closed genetic pool.
