The general topic

The loss of genetic diversity is considered a key element in entering the extinction vortex. Shrinking population size reduces the number of genetic variants available to cope with changes in habitat conditions. Together with other factors such as genetic drift, this loss progressively decreases the fitness of any given species. This is especially true for asexually reproducing species, where recombination of traits is limited to the genetic variability of a single parent. The conservation of genetic diversity is thus a central element of conservation concepts. In species where asexual and sexual populations occur, it is important to assess genetic diversity and genetic structure to identify priority conservation areas.