What is the purpose of genetic recombination?

The purpose of genetic recombination primarily lies in its role in increasing genetic diversity in offspring. This process occurs during meiosis, which is the specialized type of cell division that produces gametes (sperm and eggs). During meiosis, homologous chromosomes exchange segments of DNA through a process called crossing over, leading to new combinations of alleles.

These combinations contribute to the genetic variation within a population, which is crucial for evolution and natural selection. Increased genetic diversity enhances a population's ability to adapt to changing environments and challenges, such as disease or climate shifts. This adaptability is essential for the survival and long-term success of species.

By contrast, creating identical copies of DNA focuses on replication, which is a different mechanism and essential for cell division but does not introduce variation. Repairing damaged DNA strands is a separate, crucial cellular process that maintains genetic integrity but does not contribute to overall diversity. Ensuring consistent traits in a species can be a product of stable, non-recombining populations, but this stability can limit adaptation over time, making genetic diversity essential for evolutionary fitness.