Meiotic cell division or meiosis consists of two phases, meiosis I and meiosis II. Each phase is divided into four stages which are prophase, metaphase, anaphase and telophase.
Prophase I
During prophase I, each chromosome is now consists of two sister chromatids. Crossing over may occur. The nucleolus disappears, nuclear membrane breaks down and spindle fibers assemble.
Metaphase I
During metaphase I, the spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of chromosomes. The homologous chromosomes align themselves at equatorial plane or metaphase plate.
Anaphase I
During anaphase I, the spindle fibers contract, separating the homologous chromosomes. The homologous chromosomes move toward the opposite poles.
Telophase I
During telophase I, the separated homologous chromosomes arrive at the poles. The spindle fibers disappear, nucleolus reappears and nuclear membrane reforms.
Prophase II
During prophase II, the nucleolus disappears, nuclear membrane breaks down and spindle fibers assemble.
Metaphase II
During metaphase II, the spindle fibers attach to the centromeres of chromosomes. The chromosomes align themselves at equatorial plane or metaphase plate.
Anaphase II
During anaphase II, the spindle fibers contract, separating the sister chromatids. The sister chromatids move toward the opposite poles.
Telophase II
During telophase II, the daughter chromosomes arrive at the poles. The spindle fibers disappear, nucleolus reappears and nuclear membrane reforms. Cytokinesis begins.