Why is Genetic Variation Important?
Genetic variation plays a fundamental role in the evolution, adaptation, and functioning of living organisms. Some of the reasons why genetic variation is important is explained as follows:
- Genetic variation allows natural selection to increase or decrease the frequency of alleles in a population. This leads to changes in the gene pool of organisms and guides evolution.
- It helps organisms adapt to changing environment and increase their chance of survival.
- Genetic variation helps a species,either plant or animals resistant to certain diseases.
- It increases the reproductive success of a population and also an important aspect of biodiversity.
- Variation gives each organism a distinct individuality.
- Variation helps maintain environmental stability.
What is Genetic Variation?
Genetic Variation is the difference in DNA sequence within a population or among individuals of the same species. Genetic variation in a population arises due to the combination of processes including mutation, genetic recombination, genetic drift, and gene flow.
Understanding the types of genetic variation and causes helps in learning the evolutionary processes and population dynamics. In this article, we will cover the genetic variation causes, types, importance, and sources of genetic variation in detail.
Table of Content
- Genetic Variation Meaning
- Types of Genetic Variation
- What Causes Genetic Variation?
- Examples of Genetic Variation
- Advantages of Genetic Variation
- Disadvantages of Genetic Variation
- Why is Genetic Variation Important?
- Conservation of Genetic Variation