Identify the meiotic stage in which the homologous chromosomes separate while the sister chromatids remains associated at their centromeres:

Options

A. Metaphase I
B. Metaphase II
C. Anaphase I
D. Anaphase II

Answer

To identify the meiotic stage in which homologous chromosomes separate while the sister chromatids remain associated at their centromeres, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Process of Meiosis**: Meiosis consists of two main stages: Meiosis I and Meiosis II. Each of these stages has several phases, including prophase, metaphase, anaphase, and telophase.

2. **Identify the Key Terms**:
- **Homologous Chromosomes**: These are pairs of chromosomes, one from each parent, that are similar in shape, size, and genetic content.
- **Sister Chromatids**: These are identical copies of a chromosome that are connected at a region called the centromere.

3. **Analyze the Options**:
- **Metaphase I (MF1)**: In this stage, homologous chromosomes align at the metaphase plate, but they do not separate yet.
- **Metaphase II (MF2)**: Here, the chromosomes (which are already in their sister chromatid form) align at the metaphase plate, but again, there is no separation of homologous chromosomes.
- **Anaphase I**: This is the stage where homologous chromosomes are pulled apart to opposite poles of the cell. Importantly, during this stage, the sister chromatids remain attached at their centromeres.
- **Anaphase II**: In this stage, the centromeres split, and the sister chromatids are pulled apart to opposite poles.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the correct meiotic stage where homologous chromosomes separate while sister chromatids remain associated at their centromeres is **Anaphase I**.

### Final Answer:
The meiotic stage is **Anaphase I**.

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