The basis of evolution of new species is

Options

A. genetic diversity
B. species diversity
C. community diversity
D. all of these

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Evolution**: The evolution of new species is a process that occurs over time, where existing species adapt to their environment and can eventually lead to the formation of new species.

2. **Identifying Types of Diversity**: There are three main types of diversity to consider:
- **Genetic Diversity**: Variability in genes within a species.
- **Species Diversity**: Variety of species within a particular habitat or ecosystem.
- **Community Diversity**: Different populations of species that coexist in a particular area.

3. **Focusing on Genetic Diversity**: Among the three types, genetic diversity is the most critical for the evolution of new species. Genetic diversity provides the raw material for evolution, as it encompasses the variations in genes that can result in different traits.

4. **Role of Genes in Evolution**: Genes are responsible for coding traits in organisms. Changes in these genes, often through mutations, can lead to new traits that may help an organism adapt to its environment.

5. **Mutation and Adaptation**: Mutations are inheritable changes in genes that can result in new traits. If these traits provide a survival advantage, they can become more common in the population over generations, leading to the evolution of new species.

6. **Formation of New Species**: As mutations accumulate and lead to significant changes, a species may diverge into two or more distinct species. For example, a species A may evolve into species B and C, which are genetically different from each other.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the basis of the evolution of new species is primarily rooted in genetic diversity, as it is the source of variation that drives the evolutionary process.

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