How does meiosis increase genetic variation ?
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Meiosis is a specialized process of cell division that occurs in sexually reproducing organisms. It produces sex cells, known as gametes (sperm and eggs), which have half the number of chromosomes compared to the other cells in the body (somatic cells). Meiosis plays a critical role in increasing genetic variation in several ways:
1. Independent Assortment: During meiosis, chromosomes align randomly along the metaphase plate and then separate, ensuring genetic diversity. This means that the distribution of maternal and paternal chromosomes into gametes is random. The possible combinations of maternal and paternal chromosomes can result in a vast number of unique genetic combinations.
2. Crossing Over: In the first stage of meiosis (Prophase I), homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material through a process called crossing over. This crossing over event results in the exchange of genetic information between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes. It leads to the creation of new combinations of alleles (different forms of a gene), further increasing genetic variation.
3. Random Fertilization: Following meiosis, when gametes are formed, they carry unique combinations of genes. During sexual reproduction, when fertilization occurs, two gametes from different parents combine randomly, resulting in the fusion of two distinct sets of genetic information. This random fusion further enhances genetic diversity.
In summary, meiosis increases genetic variation through independent assortment, crossing over, and random fertilization. These mechanisms introduce new and unique combinations of genes, allowing for genetic diversity within a population.