Transposons, also known as "jumping genes," are segments of DNA that can move within a genome. They can insert themselves into different locations in the DNA sequence, which can lead to mutations or changes in gene expression. Transposons are found in many organisms, including plants, animals, and bacteria, and play a role in genetic diversity. There are two main types of transposons: DNA transposons and retrotransposons. DNA transposons move directly as DNA, while retrotransposons first convert their DNA into RNA before being copied back into DNA and inserted elsewhere. These movements can influence evolution and adaptation by creating genetic variation.