An environmental factor that can influence natural selection and increase genetic diversity is a change in climate.
1. Example 1: Let's consider a scenario where an area experiences a sudden increase in temperature due to climate change. As a result, certain plant species that are better adapted to the new warmer conditions thrive, while others may struggle to survive or reproduce. This differential survival and reproduction based on traits related to heat tolerance can lead to an increase in genetic diversity within the plant population over time.
2. Example 2: Alternatively, imagine a coastal region where sea levels rise significantly. This change in the environment can impact the survival of marine organisms living in that area. Species that possess traits like increased salt tolerance or the ability to adapt to changes in water depth may have a survival advantage. Consequently, these advantageous traits can become more prevalent in the population, contributing to genetic diversity.
In both examples, the environmental factor of climate change has influenced natural selection by favoring certain traits that are better suited to the altered conditions, thereby driving genetic diversity within populations.
