meiosis stages

Interphase

The cell grows and replicates its DNA, ensuring each chromosome has two identical sister chromatids.

Prophase I

Chromosomes condense, homologous chromosomes pair up (synapsis), and crossing over (exchange of genetic material) occurs.

Metaphase I

Paired homologous chromosomes (tetrads) line up at the cell's equator.

Anaphase I

Homologous chromosomes separate, and each chromosome is pulled to opposite poles of the cell.

Telophase I

Nuclear envelopes reform around the separated chromosomes, and the cell divides into two daughter cells (cytokinesis), each with half the number of chromosomes (haploid).

Prophase II

Chromosomes condense again if they decondensed after Telophase I.

Metaphase II

Sister chromatids of each chromosome line up at the equator of each of the two cells.

Anaphase II

Sister chromatids separate and are pulled to opposite poles in each of the two cells.

Telophase II

Nuclear envelopes reform around the separated sister chromatids (now called chromosomes), and the cells divide into four haploid daughter cells (cytokinesis).

Key Difference - Meiosis I

Meiosis I separates homologous chromosomes.

Key Difference - Meiosis II

Meiosis II separates sister chromatids.

Outcome of Meiosis I

Results in two haploid cells.

Outcome of Meiosis II

Results in four haploid cells.

Crossing Over

Occurs during Meiosis I but not Meiosis II.