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Prophase I is one of the most important stages of meiosis.
During this stage, many crucial events occur. The chromotid threads begin to twist and condense, creating chromosomal structures which are visible to the microscope. Each chromosome then actively seeks out its homologous chromosome, as shown in the graphical representation. After the homologous chromosomes pair, the structure is referred to as a tetrad (four chromatids). The point at which two non-sister chromatids intertwine is known as a chiasma. Sometimes a process known as crossing over occurs at this point. This is where two non-sister chromatids exchange genetic material. This exchange does not become evident, however, until the two homologous pairs separate. |
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