Meiosis

Meiosis starts with diploid cells, or cells that have two sets of chromosomes from their parents. Haploid cells only have one set of chromosome from their parents. In meiosis the diploid cell eventually forms four germ cells (also called 1n) that have half the chromosomes. In meiosis two sets of nuclear division occur. In Meiosis I the diploid cell is changed into two diploid cells. Then, in Meiosis II the two diploid cells are split into four haploid cells. Since meiosis involves two divisions and only only replication of DNA, it leaves half the amount of chromosomes. Thus it is also called reduction-division.

The purpose of meiosis is to increase the genetic variation. After meiosis there are four haploids, each with different sets of chromosomes. However, in mitosis the end result are two identical diploids. Meiosis is used in sexual reproduction, since to reproduce, an egg and a sperm have to come together for reproduction to occur. This further increases the genetic variation which allows for evolution and the adaptation of organisms to different environments.

Choose from the options below to learn about the steps involved in meiosis.

    Meiosis 1: Prophase 1

    Meiosis 2: Metaphase 1

    Meiosis 3: Anaphase 1

    Meiosis 4: Telophase 1

    Meiosis 5: Prophase 2

    Meiosis 6: Metaphase 2

    Meiosis 7: Anaphase 2

    Meiosis 8: Telophase 2

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