What role does genetic variation play in a population's survival?

Genetic variation is crucial for the survival of a population because it enhances adaptability to environmental changes. When a population possesses a diverse genetic makeup, individuals within that population can exhibit a range of traits. This diversity means that some individuals are more likely to survive and reproduce under changing environmental conditions, such as fluctuations in climate or the introduction of new diseases.

For example, in a scenario where a new disease emerges, individuals with genetic traits that provide resistance to that disease are more likely to survive and pass those traits on to their offspring. Over time, the population may adapt as beneficial traits become more common. This adaptability is essential for long-term survival, as it allows populations to cope with challenges and changes in their environment that would otherwise threaten their existence.

In contrast, in populations with low genetic variation, the lack of diverse traits can lead to increased vulnerability to environmental stressors, reducing the overall chances of survival and reproduction. Thus, the presence of genetic variation directly influences a population's ability to adapt and thrive amidst challenges.