Question

What are chiasmata? State their significance?

Answer 1

Homologous chromosome:

1. Homologous chromosomes are a pair of corresponding chromosomes with the same form and size, one from each parent.
2. The two chromatids of paired homologous chromosomes are referred to as non-sister chromatids.

Chiasmata:

1. It is the point at which two homologous non-sister chromatids exchange genetic material.
2. Chiasmata are X-shaped structures.
3. It represents the site of crossing over.
4. Crossing over occurs during the pachytene stage of meiosis I.

Significance of chiasmata:

1. Chiasmata connect homologous chromosomes until they reach anaphase I.
2. Crossing over at chiasmata results in variation in the offspring.