Meiosis reduces the chromosome number

in gametes from diploid to haploid. It is the main way by which genetic variation occurs in species. This variation is introduced mainly by two processesindependent or random assortment and crossing over or recombination

 It is the random distribution of maternal and

paternal chromosomes into gametes during cell division. Chromosomes from the parents are distributed randomly into the gametes. There are more than eight million potential genetic combinations within the sperm and the egg

 Crossing over is the exchange of genetic material

between the homologous chromosomes.

Crossing over results in recombinant

chromosomes.
cut and stitch bits of maternal and paternal

chromatids together.
The points where chromatids break are called

chiasmata

Importance of crossing over Exchange of genetic material leads to genetic variation. Errors in the process leads to mutation. It is a way of introducing new combinations into the genetic make-up of a species