Mitosis creates two identical daughter cells that each contain the same number of chromosomes as their parent cell. ... These new combinations result from the exchange of DNA between paired chromosomes. Such exchange means that the gametes produced through meiosis exhibit an amazing range of genetic variation.

Is there genetic variation in mitosis?

Gene Transmission in Mitosis

Indeed, apart from random mutations, each successive duplicate cell will have the same genetic composition as its parent, due to the inheritance of the same chromosome set and similar biological environment.

Does mitosis increase or decrease genetic variation?

Genetic variation is increased by meiosis

Because of recombination and independent assortment in meiosis, each gamete contains a different set of DNA. This produces a unique combination of genes in the resulting zygote. Recombination or crossing over occurs during prophase I.