Biol 3130 Lecture 18: Meiosis and Genetic Diversity

This set of flashcards covers key terms and concepts related to meiosis, genetic diversity, and gamete formation, based on the provided lecture notes.

Meiosis

A cell division process in eukaryotes that produces haploid reproductive cells (gametes) by halving the chromosome number.

Gamete

A reproductive cell having the haploid number of chromosomes, capable of fusing with a gamete of the opposite sex.

Crossing over

The exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes during Prophase I of meiosis, leading to genetic variation.

Independent assortment

The process by which genes on different chromosomes separate into gametes independently of one another; a key mechanism for genetic diversity.

Recombination

The process by which genetic material is mixed during meiosis, leading to new combinations of alleles.

Meiosis I

The first stage of meiosis, which is a reduction division where the chromosome number is halved from diploid to haploid.

Prophase I

The first phase of Meiosis I, marked by the pairing of homologous chromosomes and crossing over.

Telophase I

The stage of meiosis after Anaphase I, where the cell divides into two daughter cells, each with half the original chromosome number.

Meiosis II

The second stage of meiosis, resembling mitosis, where the sister chromatids are separated, maintaining the haploid state.

Interkinesis

The period between Meiosis I and Meiosis II, where the nuclear envelope reforms and the spindle fibers break down.