Why is population size important for survival of a species?

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Accepted Answer

∻Answer∻ ⚹ Population size is crucial for the survival of a species because it affects genetic diversity, resilience to environmental changes, and the ability to recover from population declines. ⚹ ∻Solution∻ ‖ a ⋮ Genetic Variation: Larger populations tend to have more genetic diversity, which provides a greater pool of traits that can help individuals adapt to changing environments. This increases the chances of survival for the species. ‖‖ b ⋮ Inbreeding: Smaller populations are more prone to inbreeding, which can lead to a higher incidence of genetic disorders and reduced fitness. This can make the population more vulnerable to extinction. ‖‖ c ⋮ Demographic Stochasticity: In small populations, random events (e.g., natural disasters, disease outbreaks) can have a disproportionately large impact, potentially leading to extinction. Larger populations are more buffered against these random events. ‖ ∻Key Concept∻ ⚹ Genetic diversity ⚹ ∻Explanation∻ ⚹ Genetic diversity within a population increases the likelihood that some individuals will possess traits that allow them to survive and reproduce under changing environmental conditions. ⚹◊How does the carrying capacity of an environment impact the survival of a species?⍭ Generate me a similar question◊

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