Importance of Genetic Diversity
There are many different ways to measure genetic diversity. The modern causes for the loss of animal genetic diversity have also been studied and identified. A 2007 study conducted by the National Science Foundation found that genetic diversity and biodiversity (Biodiversity is the degree of variation of life forms within a given ecosystem) ] are dependent upon each other—that diversity within a species is necessary to maintain diversity among species, and vice versa. According to the lead researcher in the study, Dr. Richard Lankau, "If any one type is removed from the system, the cycle can break down, and the community becomes dominated by a single species."
The interdependence between genetic and biological diversity is delicate. Changes in biological diversity lead to changes in the environment, leading to adaptation of the remaining species. Changes in genetic diversity, such as in loss of species, leads to a loss of biological diversity.
Read more about this topic: Genetic Diversity
Famous quotes containing the words importance of, importance, genetic and/or diversity:
“... women especially seem to have very little idea of the importance of business time.”
—Caroline Nichols Churchill (1833–?)
“An interesting play cannot in the nature of things mean anything but a play in which problems of conduct and character of personal importance to the audience are raised and suggestively discussed.”
—George Bernard Shaw (1856–1950)
“Nature, we are starting to realize, is every bit as important as nurture. Genetic influences, brain chemistry, and neurological development contribute strongly to who we are as children and what we become as adults. For example, tendencies to excessive worrying or timidity, leadership qualities, risk taking, obedience to authority, all appear to have a constitutional aspect.”
—Stanley Turecki (20th century)
“... city areas with flourishing diversity sprout strange and unpredictable uses and peculiar scenes. But this is not a drawback of diversity. This is the point ... of it.”
—Jane Jacobs (b. 1916)