MEIOSIS

Importance:
Cells must divide to form gametes which are haploid (n) in nature, this means that they
contain only one set of the basic chromosome number, this means they have half the
number of chromosomes as a normal cell
When these two gametes fuse during fertilization they must have the total number of
chromosomes, they in the case of humans must be diploid (2n), otherwise the number of
chromosomes would constantly increase each time new generations are produced. Thus it
enables the maintenance of the species chromosome number.
Allows variation to occur since crossing over of chromosomes occurs and chromosome
line up randomly at the equator.
Note: each human cell has 46 chromosomes, or 23 pairs of homologous chromosomes, one set of
23 is inherited maternally, and 23 paternally. Each maternal chromosome set has a corresponding
paternal chromosome which is similar in size, shape and position of genes; these together make a
homologous pair.

The process:

Meiosis comprises two successive nuclear divisions with only one round of DNA replication.
Four stages can be described for each nuclear division.

Interphase: Before meiosis begins, genetic material is duplicated.

First division of meiosis

o

Prophase 1: Duplicated chromatin condenses. Each chromosome consists of two,

closely associated sister chromatids. Homologous chromosomes come together
forming a bivalent. Crossing-over can occur during the latter part of this stage
where pieces of chromatids are exchanged.

Metaphase 1: Homologous chromosomes align at the equatorial plate.

Anaphase 1: Homologous pairs separate with sister chromatids remaining

together. Chromosomes move to the opposite sides.

Telophase 1: Two daughter cells are formed with each daughter containing only
one chromosome of the homologous pair. This means that they each have the
haploid number.

Second division of meiosis: Gamete formation

o

Prophase 2: DNA does not replicate. Centrioles migrate to opposite sides of the
cells.

Metaphase 2: Chromosomes align at the equatorial plate.

Anaphase 2: Centromeres divide and sister chromatids migrate separately to each

pole.

Telophase 2: Nuclear membranes form around each set of chromosomes. Cell

division is complete. Four haploid daughter cells are obtained each of which is
genetically different from each other.

One parent cell produces four daughter cells. Daughter cells have half the number of
chromosomes found in the original parent cell and with crossing over, are genetically different.
Variation arises as a result of:

 Crossing over between homologous pairs of chromosomes in the early stages of meiosis,
this is a random process. Each pair of homologous chromosomes can exchange genetic
material differently.
Chromosomes line up randomly at the equator during metaphase I. So there a many
possible orders in which the can do this, so there would be many possible groupings
Chromosomes line up randomly in metaphase II which can give many possible groupings
in the production of gametes
Significance:
4 genetically different daughter cells are produced at the end of meiosis, thus gametes
from each person is different.
Gametes carry genetic information for the offspring from the parents
When fertilization occurs there will be even more variation
Offspring are different from each other and from their parents, because of crossing over
and random alignment of chromosomes
Thus there is variation in the population if any changes in the environment occur that

may be of threat to the species there is a greater chance of survival of some individuals.
So survival of the species if ensured.
This allow for evolution according to Darwin to occur, which says that organisms most
Note: please see pg 236 table 21.1 for a comparison of mitosis and meiosis.