Which of the following processes during meiosis contributes to genetic variation in insect color?

• A. Formation of the nuclear envelope
• B. Replication of DNA during interphase
• C. Crossing over between homologous chromosomes
• D. Attachment of spindle fibers to centromeres

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of meiosis: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, creating four haploid cells. It is essential for sexual reproduction and contributes to genetic variation.
2. Identify the key processes in meiosis that contribute to genetic variation: Genetic variation arises from mechanisms such as crossing over, independent assortment, and random fertilization.
3. Focus on crossing over: Crossing over occurs during prophase I of meiosis. Homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange segments of their DNA, leading to new combinations of alleles.
4. Explain why crossing over contributes to genetic variation: By exchanging genetic material between homologous chromosomes, crossing over creates unique combinations of genes that are different from the parent cells, influencing traits such as insect color.
5. Clarify why other options do not contribute to genetic variation: Formation of the nuclear envelope, replication of DNA during interphase, and attachment of spindle fibers to centromeres are essential for cell division but do not directly create genetic variation.