Genetic recombination occurs during-

Options

A. Prophase of meiosis I
B. lnterphase precending meiosis II
C. Metaphase of meiosis I
D. Fertilization

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understand the Process of Meiosis**: Meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the production of gametes (sperm and eggs). It consists of two main stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II.

2. **Identify the Stages of Meiosis**: Meiosis I is further divided into several phases: Prophase I, Metaphase I, Anaphase I, and Telophase I. Prophase I is particularly important as it is where genetic recombination occurs.

3. **Focus on Prophase I**: Prophase I is divided into five sub-stages: Leptotene, Zygotene, Pachytene, Diplotene, and Diakinesis. Among these, the Pachytene stage is crucial for genetic recombination.

4. **Crossing Over in Pachytene**: During the Pachytene sub-stage of Prophase I, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange segments of genetic material in a process known as crossing over. This exchange leads to genetic recombination.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, genetic recombination occurs specifically during the Pachytene stage of Prophase I in Meiosis I.

**Final Answer**: Genetic recombination occurs during Prophase I of Meiosis.

---