Bottleneck (Population)
A sharp reduction in population size that reduces genetic diversity. Surviving individuals' genes become overrepresented in future generations, potentially fixing random alleles.
Biological Context
Cheetahs show remarkably low genetic diversity, likely due to a population bottleneck around 10,000 years ago. Northern elephant seals were reduced to about 20 individuals by hunting; despite recovery to 200,000, they retain low genetic diversity. Bottlenecks can permanently alter a population's evolutionary potential.
Business Application
Organizational bottlenecks: layoffs and crises that reduce workforce diversity. Companies that survive downturns with only certain types of employees may lose capabilities and perspectives needed for future adaptation. The survivors' characteristics become the new organizational DNA.