Final answer:
The degeneracy of the genetic code makes cells less vulnerable to mutations by allowing for redundancy, where multiple codons code for the same amino acid. This redundancy can prevent changes in protein functions despite nucleotide substitutions, enhancing biological fitness and an organism's ability to adapt to genetic changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the strengths of taboo or biological degeneration referring to the degeneracy of the genetic code is that it makes cells less vulnerable to mutations. The degeneracy of the genetic code implies that multiple codons can code for the same amino acid. This built-in redundancy means that even if a mutation occurs at the nucleotide level, it might not change the amino acid that is incorporated into the protein, which can be crucial for maintaining the protein's function.The advantage of degeneracy with respect to the negative impact of random mutations on natural selection and evolution is significant. Since some mutations will not affect the protein function, the organism's health and ability to reproduce may not be compromised. This more forgiving aspect of the genetic code can lead to a population that is more resilient to genetic changes and can adapt more readily over time, enhancing biological fitness.Furthermore, substitutions that do alter the amino acid often result in the insertion of a chemically similar amino acid. This property helps maintain the structure and function of proteins, even if a mutation occurs. It can be seen as a protective mechanism that ensures sophisticated biochemical processes, such as energy-generation and replication, are maintained efficiently through evolutionary history.