Final answer:
Genetic diversity, or genetic variation, is the non-constancy of species and is the raw material for evolutionary adaptation. It refers to the variety of genes present within a population and determines a species' potential to adapt to changing environments.
Step-by-step explanation:
Genetic diversity, also known as genetic variation, is the non-constancy of species. It refers to the variety of genes present within a population and is the raw material for evolutionary adaptation. A species' potential to adapt to changing environments or new diseases depends on its genetic diversity. For example, a genus with different types of species will have more genetic diversity than a genus with species that look alike and have similar ecologies.