The term "mutation" refers specifically to a change in the DNA sequence of an organism. This alteration can occur in various forms, such as a substitution of one nucleotide for another, the insertion or deletion of nucleotides, or larger-scale changes that affect entire segments of DNA. Mutations can happen due to errors during DNA replication, exposure to radiation, chemical agents, or even through viral interactions.
Mutations are crucial in the context of evolution and genetics as they introduce genetic diversity within populations. While some mutations can have neutral effects or even be harmful, others may be beneficial, potentially providing advantages to the organism in its environment. This genetic variability is a key component for natural selection to act upon, allowing species to adapt over time.
Prominent examples of mutations include those that lead to antibiotic resistance in bacteria or the variations that result in different traits among individuals in a species, such as color, size, or behavior. Understanding mutations is essential for studying evolutionary processes and the mechanism of heredity in biology.