Genetic Diversity and Ecosystem Resilience

The video discusses the importance of genetic variation in natural selection, highlighting how it enables populations to adapt to environmental changes. It examines the bottleneck effect in endangered species like the California condor and cheetah, showing how reduced genetic diversity can threaten survival. The video contrasts monocultures with diverse ecosystems, emphasizing that genetic and ecosystem diversity enhance resilience to environmental pressures. Historical examples, such as the Irish potato famine, illustrate the risks of low genetic diversity.

Why is genetic variation crucial for natural selection?

• It allows for identical traits in a population.

• It ensures that all individuals are equally adapted.

• It provides a basis for advantageous traits to be selected.

• It prevents any form of evolution.

What is the bottleneck effect?

• A process where new species are formed.

• A method of genetic engineering.

• A reduction in genetic diversity due to a significant population decrease.

• An increase in population size.

Which of the following species experienced a bottleneck effect?

• Lesser prairie chicken

• Gray wolf

• Bald eagle

• African elephant

How does low genetic variation affect a population's ability to survive environmental changes?

• It has no impact on survival.

• It guarantees survival.

• It decreases the likelihood of survival.

• It increases the likelihood of survival.

How does genetic diversity affect natural selection?

• It stops evolution.

• It hinders the process.

• It has no effect.

• It enhances the process by providing varied traits.

What is a monoculture?

• A diverse ecosystem with many species.

• A single species ecosystem with high genetic diversity.

• An ecosystem dominated by one species with little genetic variation.

• A type of rainforest.

Why are monocultures more susceptible to diseases?

• They have high genetic diversity.

• They lack genetic diversity.

• They are located in rainforests.

• They are resistant to environmental changes.

What is the main advantage of a genetically diverse ecosystem?

• It is more likely to resist environmental pressures.

• It has fewer species.

• It is less stable.

• It requires more human intervention.

Which historical event is an example of the consequences of low genetic diversity in crops?

• The Irish potato famine

• The Dust Bowl

• The Green Revolution

• The Industrial Revolution

What role does genetic diversity play in crop resilience?

• It reduces the need for genetic engineering.

• It has no impact on crop resilience.

• It enhances the ability to adapt to environmental changes.

• It makes crops more susceptible to diseases.