Genetic Diversity - Examples, Importance and Conversation

Genetic Diversity: Genetic diversity refers to the variety of genetic traits in a species. It includes differences both between different species and within the same species. This diversity is crucial for a species adapting to different environments.

A wide range of genetic traits increases the chances that some individuals within a population will have traits well-suited to the prevailing environmental conditions. These individuals are more likely to survive and have offspring with similar beneficial traits. This process helps ensure the continued survival of the population over generations.

Genetic diversity differs from genetic variability, which describes how genetic traits can vary. Genetic diversity is essential for the long-term survival and resilience of a species. Examples of genetic diversity and its importance are explained further in the article below, along with detailed NEET Biology Notes relevant to the NEET exam.

Genetic Diversity Definition

Biodiversity refers to the variety of plants and animals living in an ecosystem. It exists at three levels: species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity. Each individual has a unique genetic makeup, determined by their DNA. A wide range of gene combinations in a population helps it cope with environmental stress. Genetic diversity is crucial for evolution and natural selection, which favours the survival of the best-adapted individuals.

Genetic diversity is the range of genetic differences within a species. It comes from genetic material mixing during inheritance and changes over time and in different places. Sexual reproduction is important for keeping genetic diversity because it creates unique offspring with mixes of their parents' genes. Gene mutations, genetic drift, and gene flow also help create genetic diversity.

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Genetic Diversity in Humans

Genetic diversity in humans means the differences in our genes. These differences can be seen between people, within groups of people, and even across continents. The following are some important points about genetic diversity in humans:

We are very similar genetically: Despite our differences, we share about 99.9% of our DNA. This means that for every 1,000 DNA building blocks, only about 10 are different between two people.

Most differences are within groups: Even though we can group people based on their ancestry, studies show that about 85% of all genetic differences are found within these groups. Only about 15% of the differences are between different groups of people.

How differences happen: Genetic differences mainly come from two things: changes in our DNA called mutations and the mixing of genetic material during reproduction. Mutations can create new versions of genes while mixing genetic material can create new combinations of existing genes.

Genetic diversity is important for many reasons. It helps populations adapt to different environments. For example, some people have genes that make them more resistant to certain diseases. Genetic diversity also helps keep populations healthy, as similar populations are more likely to have genetic problems.

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Genetic Diversity Examples

Genetic diversity refers to the variety of genetic characteristics within a species. It is crucial for adaptation and survival in changing environments. Examples include:

1. Human Diversity: Seen in traits like skin colour and blood type.
2. Crop Diversity: Important for breeding disease-resistant and high-yield varieties.
3. Animal Diversity: Helps breed for traits like meat quality and disease resistance.
4. Microbial Diversity: Aids adaptation to different environments and process roles.
5. Wildlife Diversity: Crucial for adaptation and survival in changing habitats.
6. Conservation Efforts: Aim to preserve genetic diversity in endangered species and crop varieties.

These examples demonstrate the importance of genetic diversity for resilience and adaptability.

Genetic Diversity Importance

The following are the importance of genetic diversity:

1. Genetic diversity enhances an individual's physical attributes and adaptability to stress, diseases, and harsh environmental conditions.
2. Environmental changes, whether natural or human-induced, lead to natural selection, favouring the survival of the most adaptable organisms.
3. Genetic diversity ensures species' survival by allowing susceptible varieties to perish and enabling those with adaptive traits to thrive.
4. It is crucial for maintaining a healthy population by preserving various gene variants that may offer resistance to pests, diseases, or adverse environmental conditions.
5. Crossbreeding different genetic variants can lead to new plant varieties with desirable traits, such as disease resistance and increased stress tolerance.
6. Genetic diversity helps reduce the recurrence of undesirable inherited traits within a population.
7. It guarantees the survival of some species members, even in challenging environmental conditions, by ensuring a diverse gene pool.

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Conservation of Genetic Diversity

Several factors threaten genetic diversity, including the loss and fragmentation of habitats, climate change, and the introduction of invasive species. These threats can result in a reduction of genetic variation within and among populations.

Various methods are employed to conserve genetic diversity:

1. In situ conservation : This involves the preservation of natural habitats where plants and animals can continue to evolve and adapt. It is achieved by establishing protected areas such as national parks and wildlife reserves.
2. Ex situ conservation: This method entails collecting and storing genetic material from plants and animals in facilities like zoos, botanical gardens, and seed banks. This genetic material can be utilized to reintroduce species into their natural habitats or to establish new populations in controlled environments.
3. Sustainable management: This approach focuses on managing human activities to minimize their impact on genetic diversity. For example, forestry practices that support the growth of diverse tree species can help preserve genetic diversity in forests.

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