What is recombination in genetics?

Recombination in genetics refers to the process where genetic material is shuffled and mixed to create new combinations of genes that are different from those found in the parents. This process is fundamental in sexual reproduction, as it contributes to genetic diversity by producing offspring with a unique set of alleles.

During meiosis, the formation of gametes involves crossing over and independent assortment, which are key mechanisms of recombination. As chromosomes align and exchange segments, genetic information is rearranged. This leads to new combinations of traits that can inherit different alleles from each parent, resulting in increased variability within a population. This genetic diversity is essential for evolution and adaptation to changing environments.

Understanding recombination is crucial in many areas of biology, including genetics, evolutionary biology, and breeding programs, as it helps explain how traits are passed down and how populations can evolve over time.