What is a mutation?

A mutation is a genetic change that occurs in the DNA sequence. This change can be inherited or spontaneous and can affect the phenotype or genotype of individuals. Mutations can be deleterious, neutral or beneficial and can contribute to genetic diversity.

How does mutation affect genetic diversity?

Mutations play a key role in the development of genetic diversity. Inherited mutations create new genetic variants that are passed on to future generations. This allows individuals to adapt to environmental changes and ensure their survival.

And spontaneous mutations create new genetic variants in individuals that are not inherited. However, these mutations can contribute to maintaining genetic diversity in a population. Genetic diversity is important for the survival and evolution of species.

Genetic variation caused by mutations allows natural selection to function efficiently. Individuals whose genetic variation is favourable to environmental conditions are more likely to reproduce and leave offspring. In this way, beneficial mutations spread through the population, while harmful or neutral mutations are gradually eliminated.

Maintaining genetic diversity is key to the survival and adaptation of species. The genetic diversity generated by mutations allows populations to respond to environmental changes and cope with challenges. In this way, it increases species' chances of survival and contributes to evolution.

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