How does sexual reproduction influence evolution?

Neo Darwinian Evolution depends on mutations in the DNA that are then passed on. These mutations are thought to be totally random, accidental and undirected.

Normal sexual reproduction provides a vast number of possible variations. These variations allow for adaptive evolution. The possible variations made possible by sexual reproduction make it possible for some variations to survive in many possible environments. This is not Neo Darwinian Evolution.

Neo Darwinian evolution depends on random mutations that are believed to create new information and forms of organisms. Normal Sexual reproduction does not contribute to Neo Darwinian evolution.

Sexual reproduction introduces genetic variation through the shuffling and recombination of genetic material during the formation of gametes. This variation increases the diversity within populations, providing more opportunities for advantageous traits to arise through mutations and allowing for natural selection to act upon them, thus driving evolutionary change.