1. Conservation biologists studying cheetah populations have determined that the lack of genetic diversity among the cheetahs is due to genetic drift. Which statement explains the most likely consequence of having a low genetic diversity on the cheetah population? A. The gene pool remains in equilibrium and future generations of cheetah offspring are stronger and better adapted to their environments.

B. The cheetah population becomes less likely to survive an outbreak of a disease or an environmental change, increasing the chance of species extinction.

C. The chances of mutations occurring in the cheetah population are decreased, increasing the cheetah survival rate.

D. Genetic variability is maintained from older cheetah populations that have survived and endured environmental stressors.