What is the significance of Meiosis?

The significance of meiosis is that it helps in sexual reproduction by producing gametes (sperm and egg cells) with half the number of chromosomes and introduces genetic variation among offspring.

What is Meiosis?

Meiosis is a special type of cell division that occurs only in reproductive cells (also called germ cells). It reduces the chromosome number by half, so that when fertilization occurs, the normal number of chromosomes is restored in the new organism.

In humans, normal cells have 46 chromosomes. After meiosis, sperm and egg cells have 23 chromosomes each. When they combine during fertilization, the zygote again gets 46 chromosomes.

Why is Meiosis Important?

Meiosis is important for the following reasons:

• Maintains Chromosome Number: Meiosis ensures that the chromosome number remains constant from one generation to the next. Without meiosis, the number of chromosomes would double with each generation.
• Genetic Variation: Meiosis introduces variation through a process called crossing over and independent assortment. This variation helps in the survival and evolution of species.
• Formation of Gametes: Meiosis helps in the formation of male and female reproductive cells — sperm and eggs (also known as gametes).
• Helps in Evolution: By creating genetically different individuals, meiosis supports natural selection and adaptation.

Key Features of Meiosis

• Occurs in two stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II
• Results in the formation of four daughter cells, each with half the original number of chromosomes
• Each daughter cell is genetically different
• Only occurs in sex organs (testes in males, ovaries in females)

Difference Between Meiosis and Mitosis

Real-Life Example of Meiosis

During human reproduction, meiosis in the testes produces sperm cells, and meiosis in the ovaries produces egg cells. When these combine, a baby is formed with traits from both parents. This mixing of genes is only possible because of meiosis.