Which statement best summarizes the importance of meiosis to reproduction?

• A. Meiosis reduces the chromosome number by half, ensuring offspring have the same chromosome number as their parents.
• B. Meiosis increases the chromosome number in gametes to promote genetic diversity.
• C. Meiosis produces identical daughter cells for growth and tissue repair.
• D. Meiosis occurs only in somatic cells to maintain genetic stability.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the purpose of meiosis: Meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that occurs in sexually reproducing organisms. Its primary role is to produce gametes (sperm and egg cells) with half the chromosome number of the parent cells, ensuring the correct chromosome number in offspring after fertilization.
2. Clarify the reduction of chromosome number: During meiosis, the chromosome number is halved (from diploid to haploid). This is crucial because when two gametes fuse during fertilization, the resulting zygote restores the diploid chromosome number, maintaining genetic stability across generations.
3. Recognize the role of genetic diversity: Meiosis introduces genetic variation through processes like crossing over (exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes) and independent assortment (random distribution of chromosomes to gametes). This diversity is essential for evolution and adaptation.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Meiosis does not increase the chromosome number in gametes; it reduces it. It does not produce identical daughter cells (that is mitosis), nor does it occur in somatic cells (body cells). Meiosis is specific to germ cells involved in reproduction.
5. Select the correct statement: Based on the above understanding, the correct answer is that meiosis reduces the chromosome number by half, ensuring offspring have the same chromosome number as their parents.