Genetic erosion

Definition

Genetic erosion refers to the loss of genetic diversity within a species, which can occur due to factors such as habitat destruction, overexploitation, and climate change. This reduction in genetic variation can weaken the resilience of populations, making them more susceptible to diseases and environmental changes. As genetic erosion progresses, it poses significant risks to biodiversity and threatens the survival of various species.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Genetic erosion can lead to reduced adaptability in populations, making it difficult for them to cope with changing environmental conditions.
2. Agricultural practices such as monoculture can significantly contribute to genetic erosion by favoring a narrow range of crops while neglecting traditional varieties.
3. Inbreeding depression is a consequence of genetic erosion, where reduced genetic diversity leads to decreased fitness and survival rates among individuals.
4. Climate change exacerbates genetic erosion by altering habitats and forcing species to migrate, leading to potential loss of unique genetic traits in isolated populations.
5. Efforts in conservation genetics aim to prevent genetic erosion by maintaining and restoring genetic diversity through breeding programs and habitat protection.

Review Questions

• How does genetic erosion impact a population's ability to adapt to environmental changes?
  • Genetic erosion diminishes the genetic diversity within a population, reducing its ability to adapt to environmental changes. Without sufficient genetic variation, individuals may lack the necessary traits to survive new threats such as diseases or changing climate conditions. This loss of adaptability can lead to increased mortality rates and a higher risk of extinction.
• What are some human activities that contribute to genetic erosion, and what measures can be taken to mitigate these effects?
  • Human activities like habitat destruction, overfishing, and agricultural monocultures significantly contribute to genetic erosion by isolating populations and limiting genetic exchange. To mitigate these effects, measures such as creating protected areas, promoting sustainable practices in agriculture and fisheries, and restoring habitats are essential. These strategies help maintain healthy populations with diverse gene pools.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of genetic erosion on global biodiversity and ecosystem health.
  • The long-term consequences of genetic erosion on global biodiversity are profound, as it leads to the decline or extinction of species and the loss of unique genetic traits critical for ecosystem resilience. As ecosystems lose biodiversity, they become less stable and more vulnerable to disturbances like disease outbreaks or climate shifts. The reduction in ecosystem health can disrupt services such as pollination, water purification, and carbon storage, ultimately impacting human well-being and ecological balance.

Related terms

biodiversity: The variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem, encompassing the diversity of species, genetic variations within those species, and the ecosystems themselves.

endangered species: Species that are at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, changes in environmental conditions, or other human activities affecting their survival.

conservation genetics: A field of study that focuses on understanding the genetics of endangered species and developing strategies for preserving genetic diversity and promoting species recovery.