Pachytene phase of meiosis is characterised by which of the following...
Characteristics of Pachytene Phase of Meiosis:
Synapsis:
During the pachytene phase of meiosis, homologous chromosomes pair up and undergo synapsis. This is when the homologous chromosomes physically connect and align with each other, forming structures called bivalents.
Crossing Over:
One of the most important features of the pachytene phase is crossing over. This process involves the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes, leading to genetic diversity in the offspring. Crossing over occurs between non-sister chromatids of homologous chromosomes within the bivalents.
Terminalisation:
Terminalisation is not a characteristic of the pachytene phase of meiosis. It refers to the process where the chiasmata (points of crossover) move towards the ends of the chromosomes, indicating the completion of crossing over.
Astral Rays:
Astral rays are structures that are primarily associated with mitosis, not meiosis. They help in the separation of chromosomes during cell division by interacting with the spindle fibers.
In conclusion, the pachytene phase of meiosis is characterized by synapsis and crossing over, which are crucial for the proper segregation and genetic diversity of gametes. Terminalisation and astral rays are not directly related to this specific phase of meiosis.
Pachytene phase of meiosis is characterised by which of the following...
Synapsis takes place in the zygotene phase. In synapsis, pairing of homologous chromosomes takes place.