What are the potential consequences of losing genetic diversity in a population?

Losing genetic diversity in a population can lead to a higher likelihood of extinction because genetic diversity is crucial for a population's ability to adapt to changing environments and resist diseases. When genetic variation decreases, a population may not have the necessary traits to survive new challenges such as climate change, habitat alteration, or emerging pathogens. This lack of variation limits the potential for natural selection to act on the population, as there are fewer advantageous traits to propagate. As a result, the population becomes more vulnerable to threats, which can lead to declines in size and ultimately increase the risk of extinction. Maintaining genetic diversity enhances resilience, enabling populations to adapt more effectively to environmental pressures.