What effect does reduced genetic variation typically have on a population?

What effect does reduced genetic variation typically have on a population?

• A. Increases adaptability
• B. Decreases resilience
• C. Enhances reproduction
• D. Stabilizes ecosystem dynamics

Answer: (B)

Reduced genetic variation in a population typically leads to a decrease in resilience. Genetic variation is crucial for the ability of a population to adapt to changing environmental conditions, resist diseases, and survive through adverse situations. When a population lacks diversity in its genetic makeup, it may struggle to cope with new challenges, like shifts in climate, new diseases, or changes in available resources. A population with low genetic variation is more vulnerable to extinction because all individuals may share similar weaknesses that could be exploited by environmental stressors or pathogens. Thus, the overall health and survival of the population can be jeopardized, limiting its capacity to bounce back from disturbances. This emphasizes how vital genetic diversity is in maintaining the stability and longevity of populations within ecosystems.

Reduced genetic variation in a population typically leads to a decrease in resilience. Genetic variation is crucial for the ability of a population to adapt to changing environmental conditions, resist diseases, and survive through adverse situations. When a population lacks diversity in its genetic makeup, it may struggle to cope with new challenges, like shifts in climate, new diseases, or changes in available resources.

A population with low genetic variation is more vulnerable to extinction because all individuals may share similar weaknesses that could be exploited by environmental stressors or pathogens. Thus, the overall health and survival of the population can be jeopardized, limiting its capacity to bounce back from disturbances. This emphasizes how vital genetic diversity is in maintaining the stability and longevity of populations within ecosystems.