Genetic variation is very important to the long-term survival of a species. Variability is maintained in nature when a substantial number of individuals, in different populations, occupy the species' entire geographic range. Genetic diversity enables individuals to adapt very specifically to their environments, while rendering the species as a whole more resilient to changes such as a new disease or warmer temperatures.

Consequently, both the source and the genetic makeup of translocated organisms need to be carefully evaluated before they're released. Individuals brought in from captive populations may be genetically impoverished, while those from distant wild populations may not be able to adapt. Either situation can result in a more vulnerable wild population, since the translocated organisms may not be behaviorally equipped to succeed in the new location and/or may produce offspring of reduced genetic vigor and fitness.