Final answer:
Recombination serves to ensure genetic diversity by exchanging alleles and to accurately repair damaged DNA, thereby contributing to the evolutionary success of species.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of recombination during meiosis is multifold. Firstly, it ensures genetic diversity in sexually reproducing species, which is achieved by the exchange of alleles between homologous chromosomes. This novel combination of variant alleles results in offspring that have a different set of alleles than their parents. Secondly, recombination is crucial for the accurate repair of DNA. It enables the repair of DNA damaged by single or double-stranded breakages without deletions, using the same machinery that facilitates normal recombination. This conserved mechanism across species indicates an evolutionary imperative of accurate repair for the survival of species. Finally, recombination contributes to the genetic diversity of a population - a key factor in adaptation and evolutionary success, especially in changing or inconsistent environments.