In which stage of Meiosis II do the nuclear membranes reform?
The correct answer and explanation is :
The nuclear membranes reform during Telophase II of Meiosis II.
Explanation:
Meiosis is the process by which gametes (sperm and egg cells) are formed, and it consists of two stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Each stage involves a series of phases: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase. Meiosis II is similar to Mitosis, but it involves the division of haploid cells (cells with half the number of chromosomes).
In Meiosis I, homologous chromosomes are separated, reducing the chromosome number by half. Meiosis II follows, where the sister chromatids are separated, resulting in four haploid cells at the end.
Telophase II is the final stage of Meiosis II, following Anaphase II. During Telophase II, the separated sister chromatids (now individual chromosomes) reach opposite poles of the cell. Here’s what happens in Telophase II:
- Nuclear Membrane Formation: The nuclear membranes reform around the chromosomes at each pole. This results in the formation of new nuclei within the two haploid cells.
- Chromosomes De-condense: The chromosomes, which had been tightly coiled and visible during earlier stages, begin to loosen and de-condense, making them less visible under a microscope.
- Cytokinesis: After Telophase II, the cytoplasm of the cells divides, resulting in four non-identical haploid daughter cells, each with a single set of chromosomes. These cells are now ready to participate in fertilization.
Summary:
Thus, the nuclear membranes reassemble around the chromosomes during Telophase II of Meiosis II, marking the completion of the division and the formation of four haploid cells. This step is crucial in ensuring that the genetic material is properly enclosed and that each new cell has a complete set of chromosomes within a newly formed nucleus.