Question

How does the creation of variations in a species promote survival?

Answer 1

The variation of species is brought about by genetic diversity which is defined as the total number genetic characteristics present within the genetic makeup of a species. Changes in genetic diversity within a species gives rise to variation within the species.

Complete answer:
The major causes which can bring about variation in a species are- climate change, mutation and gene flow. When the climate of a particular area changes, the survival of species of that area depends upon their genetic diversity. Those species that can adapt to the new climate and survive are selected by natural selection which in turn brings about a significant variation in the future generation when compared to the previous ones.

Mutation is the second cause of genetic diversity. If a new mutation is introduced in a species which has a negative impact on it the mutation can be lost. But when the mutation is positive to the species then it persists and can bring about significant genetic diversity that in turn helps in the survival of the species. Gene flow is the third cause of genetic diversity. Gene flow are capable of introducing novel alleles into a population that helps in their better survival.

Note: Genetic diversity is thus important in survival of different species, absence or low genetic diversity may also lead to the extinction of the species. Sometimes human intervention is required to convert a species with low genetic diversity to high genetic diversity and in turn increase the longevity of the population.