What is the significance of genetic diversity in a population?

Genetic diversity is significant in a population primarily because it reduces the chances of extinction. When a population has a wide range of genetic variation, it enhances its ability to adapt to changing environments, resist diseases, and cope with various ecological challenges. This adaptability is crucial for survival, as diverse genetic traits allow some individuals to thrive under different conditions, ensuring that at least part of the population can endure when faced with stresses such as climate change, habitat loss, or disease outbreaks.

In contrast, populations that lack genetic diversity tend to have a homogeneous genetic makeup, making them more vulnerable to extinction. If all individuals are genetically similar, a single threat can decimate the entire population, as there may be insufficient variation to enable some individuals to survive and reproduce.

Consequently, the presence of genetic diversity not only increases a population's resilience and adaptability but also supports the establishment of robust ecosystems, as diverse populations contribute to the overall health and functioning of their environments.