Genetic polymorphism refers to the occurrence of two or more distinct forms or alleles of a gene within a population. This variation can lead to differences in traits, such as eye color or disease susceptibility, among individuals. Polymorphisms are often caused by mutations in the DNA sequence and can be inherited from one generation to the next. These variations are important for the process of evolution, as they contribute to the genetic diversity of a population. Genetic polymorphism can also play a role in natural selection, where certain traits may provide advantages or disadvantages in specific environments, influencing which alleles are passed on.