Meiosis occurs in organisms during

Options

A. sexual reproduction
B. vegetative reproduction
C. both sexual and vegetative reproduction
D. none of these

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Meiosis**: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half. It is essential for the formation of gametes (sperm and eggs) in sexually reproducing organisms.

2. **Chromosome Number**: In meiosis, a diploid parent cell (2N) divides to produce four haploid daughter cells (N). This reduction in chromosome number is crucial for maintaining the species-specific chromosome number after fertilization.

3. **Role in Sexual Reproduction**: Meiosis occurs during gametogenesis, which is the process of forming male and female gametes. These gametes are necessary for sexual reproduction.

4. **Fertilization**: When the male and female gametes fuse during fertilization, the diploid chromosome number is restored in the zygote, which then undergoes mitosis to develop into a new individual.

5. **Exclusion of Other Options**: Meiosis does not occur during vegetative reproduction, which involves mitosis and does not require the formation of gametes.

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the understanding of meiosis and its role in reproduction, the correct answer to the question is that meiosis occurs during sexual reproduction.

**Final Answer**: Meiosis occurs in organisms during sexual reproduction.

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