The process in meiosis that specifically slows down genetic variation is called crossing over. Crossing over is a process that occurs during prophase I of meiosis in which homologous chromosomes exchange genetic material. This exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes results in novel combinations of genes being passed down to offspring, increasing genetic diversity.
During crossing over, segments of DNA from one chromosome are swapped with matching segments from another chromosome. This process is facilitated by the formation of protein complexes called chiasmata, which physically hold the homologous chromosomes together as they exchange genetic material. Crossing over not only creates genetic diversity by mixing maternal and paternal alleles, but also helps to shuffle genetic information within chromosomes, further increasing the variability of offspring.
Overall, crossing over is a crucial mechanism in meiosis that slows down genetic variation by creating new combinations of genes and alleles in gametes, which ultimately leads to greater genetic diversity within a population.
What process in meiosis slow for genetic variation. How does these work?
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