Synaptonemal complex is more conspicious at

Options

A. Zygotene
B. Pachytene
C. Diplotene
D. Leptotene

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Synaptonemal Complex**: The synaptonemal complex is a protein structure that forms between homologous chromosomes during meiosis. It plays a crucial role in the process of genetic recombination.

2. **Identifying the Stage of Meiosis**: Meiosis consists of two main stages: meiosis I and meiosis II. Meiosis I is further divided into several phases: prophase I, metaphase I, anaphase I, and telophase I.

3. **Focusing on Prophase I**: The prophase I of meiosis is where significant events occur, including the pairing of homologous chromosomes. This is the phase where the synaptonemal complex is most prominent.

4. **Breaking Down Prophase I**: Prophase I is subdivided into five stages: leptotene, zygotene, pachytene, diplotene, and diakinesis. The formation of the synaptonemal complex is particularly notable during the zygotene stage.

5. **Identifying Zygotene Stage**: During the zygotene stage, homologous chromosomes begin to align closely with each other, and the synaptonemal complex forms between them, making it highly visible.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the synaptonemal complex is most conspicuous during the zygotene stage of prophase I in meiosis.

**Final Answer**: The synaptonemal complex is more conspicuous at the zygotene stage of meiosis I.

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