Genetic diversity refers to the total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species. It is the product of recombination of genetic material in the process of inheritance and ranges widely from the number of species to differences within species ¹²³. Genetic diversity is one of the elements that constitute biodiversity along with ecosystem diversity and species diversity ¹.
In a species, genetic diversity can be attributed to the span of survival for a species. High genetic diversity means that a species has a wide range of genetic characteristics, which increases its chances of survival and adaptation to changing environments. Conversely, low genetic diversity can lead to extinction as it reduces the ability of a species to adapt to environmental changes ¹.
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