Question

How is the pachytene phase of prophase I distinguished?

Answer 1

Pachytene phase:

1. The third phase of meiosis prophase-1 is termed pachytene.
2. When a bivalent chromosome reaches the pachytene stage, its four chromatids become distinct and can be seen as tetrads.
3. Recombination nodules, the locations where homologous chromosomes cross over between non-sister chromatids, are characteristic of this stage.
4. Recombination of genetic material occurs as a result of chromosome crossing over.
5. Towards the end of the pachytene phase, the recombination of homologous chromosomes is finished, leaving the chromosomes connected at the crossover sites.