What does genetic diversity indicate?

Genetic diversity refers to the variety of genes within a particular species. This diversity is crucial because it influences how adaptable a species is to changing environments and pressures such as disease or climate change. When there is high genetic diversity, a population is more likely to contain individuals with traits that can withstand changes or challenges in their habitat. This means the species has a higher chance of survival and can continue to thrive over generations.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of biodiversity. For instance, the first option pertains to ecosystems and their various forms, while the third option addresses population size within a set habitat. The last option highlights species richness, which is about the number of different species in an ecosystem rather than the genetic make-up of a single species. Thus, these alternative answers do not capture the specific significance of genetic variation within a species that is highlighted in the correct choice.