Recombinase that may participate in meiotic recombination, specifically in homologous strand assimilation, which is required for the resolution of meiotic double-strand breaks (Probable). Exhibits DNA-dependent ATPase activity when bound to single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). Mediates renaturation of homologous complementary strands as well as assimilation of single strands into homologous supercoiled duplexes leading to D-loop formation (PubMed:15821864). Binds circular single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) and circular double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) in vitro (PubMed:15821864, PubMed:26118128). Catalyzes DNA homologous renaturation and DNA strand exchange. The rates of these activities are dependent on the state of ATP hydrolysis (PubMed:16689935, PubMed:26118128). Forms helical filaments along ssDNA and dsDNA, and promotes strand exchange between ssDNA and dsDNA with long DNA substrates of several thousand base pairs. The presence of the replication protein A is not required for this activity (By similarity). Seems to be required for homologous pairing and subsequent chromosome segregation during male meiosis (PubMed:17562186). May be not directly required for homologous pairing during male meiosis. Required for synaptonemal complex assembly and crossover formation. Functions redundantly with DMC1B (By similarity). Expressed in pollen mother cells and root tips. Plant silencing DMC1A are sterile due to defects in homologous pairing and subsequent chromosome segregation during male meiosis. Belongs to the RecA family. DMC1 subfamily.