Genetics & Evolution What are the long-term effects of selective breeding on genetic diversity? February 9, 2026 by Riding Selective breeding, a process used to enhance desirable traits in plants and animals, can significantly impact genetic diversity over time. While it can improve specific characteristics, it often reduces the overall genetic variation within a population, leading to potential vulnerabilities. How Does Selective Breeding Affect Genetic Diversity? Selective breeding involves choosing parents with particular traits […] Read more »