Why is genetic diversity important in wildlife populations?

Genetic diversity is crucial in wildlife populations as it enhances resilience to environmental changes. When a population has a wide range of genetic variation, it means that individuals within the population may possess different traits that can provide advantages in varying environmental conditions. For example, some individuals may have genes that allow them to tolerate drought or resist specific diseases. This variability increases the likelihood that some members of the population will survive and reproduce when faced with stressors such as climate change, habitat destruction, or emerging pathogens.

In contrast, populations with low genetic diversity are more vulnerable to environmental changes because they may lack the necessary traits to adapt. Such populations can experience higher rates of extinction as they struggle to cope with challenges in their environment.

Maintaining genetic diversity is thus vital for the long-term survival and adaptability of wildlife populations, fostering their ability to withstand environmental fluctuations and ensuring their ecological roles are preserved.