Genetic Diversity Analysis Using Molecular and Genomic Tools

Genetic variety is essential for biological resilience, adaptability, and long-term viability in plants, animals, and microbes. Understanding the size and pattern of genetic diversity within and between populations is crucial for agricultural development; livestock breeding, conservation biology, and evolutionary research. Traditional approaches based on morphological and biochemical characteristics offer low resolution and are frequently impacted by environmental influences. Advances in molecular biology and genomics have transformed genetic diversity analysis by providing precise, dependable, and high-throughput methods. SSRs, SNPs, and AFLPs are examples of molecular markers, whereas genomic techniques such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) allow for extensive characterisation of genetic resources. This article examines the significance of genetic variety, major molecular and genomic technologies for diversity study, their applications, advantages, limitations, and future possibilities in agriculture and biodiversity conservation.