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What is a mutagen?

In: Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry [Edit categories]

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A substance that causes a mutation <<< apexx

It is any agent (such as, chemical) that is responsible for mutation, typically a genetic mutation.

A mutagen is a substance which increases the frequency of mutation in a plant or animal population, which can lead to a variety of consequences.

First answer by Redbeard. Last edit by Babyblove. Contributor trust: 1 [recommend contributor ]. Question popularity: 30 [recommend question].

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Relevant answers:

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A mutagen is a physical or chemical agent that changes the genetic material of an organism and thus increases the frequency of mutations above the natural background level.
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