Question

From a biology perspective, why is genetic diversity so important?

Answer 1

By including alleles that may be valuable in resisting diseases, pests and other stresses, genetic diversity is very important to maintain a healthy population. Diversity also helps in survival of population in extreme situations. More variation in a population are more suited for any environment. Genetic diversity plays an important role in the survival and adaptability of a species. When habitat changes, the population also adapt to survive and the ability of population to adapt will determine their ability to cope with an environmental challenge. As disadvantage, the vulnerability of a population to certain types of diseases can also increase with reduction in genetic diversity. A population might become unable to adapt to resist the disease.