How does the large amount of genetic variation observed in prokaryotes arise? see concept 27.2 (page 576) view available hint(s) how does the large amount of genetic variation observed in prokaryotes arise? see concept 27.2 (page 576) the mutation rate in prokaryotes is much higher than in eukaryotes. they have extremely short generation times and large populations. they can exchange dna with many types of prokaryotes by way of horizontal gene transfer. they have a relatively small genome. the second and third answers are correct?