Meiosis Overview

Definition

• Meiosis is a special type of cell division necessary for sexual reproduction.

Example: Male Crane Fly

• Species: Male crane fly
• Chromosome count: 8 chromosomes per cell.

Process of Meiosis

1. Two Divisions: Meiosis involves two separate rounds of division.
   • First Division: Separates pairs of homologous chromosomes.
     • Result: 2 haploid cells, each with one set of chromosomes.
   • Second Division: Separates the chromatids of each chromosome.
     • Result: 4 haploid cells, each containing a single chromatid from each chromosome.

Final Outcome

• Four haploid cells produced, each containing one copy of each chromosome.

Fertilization

• When a haploid sperm and egg unite:
  • Resulting cell is diploid.
  • Receives one chromosome of each pair from each parent.