What are potential consequences of inbreeding in a population?

Inbreeding can lead to a serious reduction in genetic variation within a population, as it often involves the mating of individuals that are closely related genetically. This reduced genetic diversity can result in an increased likelihood of expressing harmful recessive traits, leading to various genetic disorders. As a population becomes more inbred, the chances of offspring inheriting two copies of deleterious alleles (one from each parent) also rise. This can manifest in the form of health problems, reduced fitness, and decreased survival rates, negatively impacting the overall population.

Moreover, with decreased genetic variation, the ability of the population to adapt to changing environmental conditions is compromised. The fewer genetic options available, the less likely the population is to evolve in response to new challenges, such as shifting climates or emerging diseases. Consequently, while inbreeding may occur naturally in small or isolated populations, the consequences are often detrimental, leading to a decline in population health and resilience.