Phase IFoundation
Background
Overview
Understanding the biological principles behind conservation efforts is vital. Genetic diversity is a core concept in ecology and conservation biology, directly impacting the success or failure of species protection and management strategies.
Genetic diversity refers to the total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species. It is crucial for the long-term survival and adaptability of populations, allowing them to cope with environmental changes, diseases, and other stressors. Low genetic diversity, often due to inbreeding in small, isolated populations, can lead to reduced fitness and increased vulnerability to extinction.