Genetic diversity:
Genetic diversity describes the range of characteristics that can be identified within a particular species. There are 2 levels at which we can describe diversity in reference to evolution yet the gene level is the most important. The other level is species diversity; which is the amount of different species within an ecosystem.
An example of genetic diversity would be the characteristics of dogs. Some dogs are large and some are small, some have brown fur and some have white fur etc. They differ in characteristics yet they are of the same species.
Why genetic diversity is important to the survival of a species:
Genetic diversity is essential as codes for variations in phenotypes which may better suit the individual organism to a specific environment; more than others. An organism that has features and characteristics that allow it to thrive in a particular environment has an increased chance of survival. If the organism lives longer, there is a better chance that it will reproduce and pass on those characteristics to its offspring, increasing their chance of survival.
The passing on of this advantageous gene will increase the chance of survival of the whole species.
Genetic diversity describes the range of characteristics that can be identified within a particular species. There are 2 levels at which we can describe diversity in reference to evolution yet the gene level is the most important. The other level is species diversity; which is the amount of different species within an ecosystem.
An example of genetic diversity would be the characteristics of dogs. Some dogs are large and some are small, some have brown fur and some have white fur etc. They differ in characteristics yet they are of the same species.
Why genetic diversity is important to the survival of a species:
Genetic diversity is essential as codes for variations in phenotypes which may better suit the individual organism to a specific environment; more than others. An organism that has features and characteristics that allow it to thrive in a particular environment has an increased chance of survival. If the organism lives longer, there is a better chance that it will reproduce and pass on those characteristics to its offspring, increasing their chance of survival.
The passing on of this advantageous gene will increase the chance of survival of the whole species.