What is the basis of Herman muller's ratchet theory?

Answer 1

In evolutionary genetics, Muller's ratchet (named after Hermann Joseph Muller and a mechanical device) is the process by which the genomes of an asexual population accumulate deleterious mutations in an irreversible manner.

Answer 2

Herman Muller's ratchet theory suggests that in asexual populations, the accumulation of deleterious mutations in individuals is a one-way process. Without recombination and sexual reproduction to eliminate these mutations, they can progressively build up over time. Eventually, this can lead to the extinction of the population.