A gene pool refers to the set of all genes or genetic information in any population, usually of a particular species. A large gene pool indicates extensive genetic diversity, which is better able to withstand environmental challenges. Inbreeding contributes to a smaller gene pool, making populations or species less able to adapt and survive when faced with environmental challenges. The composition of a populations gene pool can change over time through evolution, which can occur by a variety of mechanisms, including mutations, natural selection, and genetic drift.
Harlan and de Wet (1971) proposed classifying each crop and its related species by gene pools rather than by formal taxonomy. Gene pool centers refer to areas on the earth where important crop plants and domestic animals originated. They have an extraordinary range of the wild counterparts of cultivated plant species and useful tropical plants. Gene pool centers also contain different sub-tropical and temperate region species.
