Crossing-over

Recombination

One source of new gene combinations comes from recombination during meiosis. This process
produces variations not found in previous generations. This happens when the ends of
chromosomes break and reattach. The image above shows how the ends of chromosomes are
exchanged through crossing-over. The consequence of this recombination is the production of
new genetic combinations that can be passed to subsequent generations. This could lead to
an adaptive advantage and influence evolution, either creating combinations of genes that are
selected for or against.

By contrast, natural selection, one of the major causes of evolution, chooses among the
variation that already exists in a population. It does not create new combinations of genes or
a different variety.