Why is meiosis important for organisms? it allows for genetic variation among organisms. it determines which genes are dominant and which are recessive. it produces genetically identical cells. it provides a means of asexual reproduction.

Meiosis is important for organisms since it allows for genetic variation among organisms.

Further Explanation:

Mitosis and meiosis are two different types of cell division. Mitosis produces two daughter cells which are identical to each other. While in meiosis “four haploid” daughter cells are produced. It is a highly systematized cell division process as the spore or gamete produce must comprise one member of each homologous pair of the chromosomes. The crossing over results in genetic exchange between the non-sister chromatids of “homologous chromosomes”. Meiosis plays a significant role during the alternation of generation in plants and acts as a bridge between the sporophyte stage and gametophyte stage. During meiosis cell division, haploid gametes or spores are produced whereas mitosis produces daughter cells which are genetically similar to each other. During meiosis the pairing of homologous chromosomes occurs by synapsis which separate during anaphase.

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Answer Details:

Grade: High School

Subject: Biology

Chapter: Mitosis and Meiosis

Keywords:

Mitosis, meiosis, homologous pair, haploid, gametes, spores, four, synapsis, gametes, daughter cell, plant, cell division, crossing over.

Option A- It allows for genetic variation among organisms.