What role does mitosis play in an organism?

Mitosis plays a crucial role in an organism by enabling growth, tissue repair, and asexual reproduction through the production of identical daughter cells. During mitosis, a single cell divides to produce two genetically identical daughter cells, which is essential for the maintenance and development of multicellular organisms. This process allows for the replacement of damaged or dead cells, facilitating healing and tissue regeneration.

Additionally, mitosis is vital in organisms that reproduce asexually, as it permits the generation of new individuals from a single parent cell without the mixing of genetic materials. This preservation of genetic identity during cellular division supports the continuity of traits within an organism or species, making it a fundamental process for life. The other options relate to different biological processes, such as meiosis for genetic variation or cellular respiration for energy production, and do not accurately reflect the specific purpose of mitosis.