How is genetic diversity advantageous to populations?

Options

A. Genes for adaptive traits to local conditions make microevolution possible.
B. The population that is most fit would survive by competitive exclusion.
C. Genetic diversity allows for species stability by preventing speciation.
D. Increased genetic diversity would lead to increased environmental variability.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Genetic Diversity**: Genetic diversity refers to the variety of genes within a population. It is crucial for the adaptability and survival of species in changing environments.

2. **Analyzing the Options**: The question provides four options regarding the advantages of genetic diversity to populations. We need to evaluate each option to determine which one correctly describes the advantages.

3. **Evaluating Option A**: The first option states that "genes for adaptive traits to local conditions make microevolution possible."
- **Analysis**: While adaptive traits are important, this option focuses on microevolution, which is a small-scale evolutionary change. The question asks about population-level advantages, which are better described by macroevolution. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

4. **Evaluating Option B**: The second option states that "the population that is most fit would survive by competitive exclusion."
- **Analysis**: Competitive exclusion suggests that stronger individuals eliminate others, which can lead to decreased genetic diversity. This contradicts the idea of genetic diversity being advantageous. Hence, this option is also incorrect.

5. **Evaluating Option C**: The third option claims that "genetic diversity allows for species stability by preventing speciation."
- **Analysis**: Speciation is the formation of new species, which is a natural part of evolution. Preventing speciation does not enhance genetic diversity; rather, it limits it. Thus, this option is incorrect.

6. **Evaluating Option D**: The final option states that "increased genetic diversity would lead to increased environmental variability."
- **Analysis**: This option suggests that with greater genetic diversity, populations can adapt to a wider range of environmental conditions, thus enhancing their survival and stability. This is a clear advantage of genetic diversity, making this option correct.

7. **Conclusion**: The correct answer is Option D, as it accurately describes how increased genetic diversity benefits populations by allowing them to adapt to various environmental conditions.

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