Cell division preparing the formation of germ cells (for example egg-cells or sperm cells).

Two germ cells containing a complete set of chromosomes (haploid) are fusing with each other in the course of sexual reproduction. Accordingly, the newly formed cell contains the double set of chromosomes (diploid). Before producing new germ cells, this double set is reduced to the single set by meiosis. In addition, parts of the parental chromosomes (marked by different colours) are combined in a new way with each other, leading to an enhanced mixing of parental genes.