Genetic mutations are sudden changes in the DNA sequence that create new genetic variations within a species. They can occur due to errors during DNA replication, exposure to radiation, chemicals, or viruses.
Types of Mutations:
Beneficial Mutations: These provide an advantage, such as antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
Neutral Mutations: These do not affect survival, such as changes in non-coding DNA.
Harmful Mutations: These can cause genetic disorders like sickle cell anemia.
Role in Evolution:
Mutations introduce genetic diversity, which is essential for natural selection.
Over generations, beneficial mutations accumulate, leading to adaptation and evolution of new species.
Some mutations cause major evolutionary changes, such as the development of new traits in organisms (e.g., evolution of feathers in birds).
Without mutations, evolution would not be possible because all organisms would remain genetically identical, preventing adaptation to changing environments.