Question

What is crossing over? Give its significance.

Answer 1

• Crossing over is the process of exchange of genetic material or segments between non-sister chromatids of two homologous chromosomes. Crossing over occurs due to the interchange of sections of homologous chromosomes.
• Significance :

1. This process provides an inexhaustible store of genetic variability in sexually reproducing organisms.
2. Useful recombinations are used by the plant and animal breeders. Breeders try to break up the linkages by crossing-over to get combinations of useful traits in the progeny.
3. This process produces a new combination of genes (recombination).