Completing Meiosis I and Starting Meiosis II
Telophase I follows the standard pattern: chromosomes assemble at poles, nuclear membranes reform, and chromosomes uncoil. Cytokinesis then creates two haploid cells, each containing half the original chromosome number.
Meiosis II begins with Prophase II, where chromosomes condense again, nuclear envelopes break down, and spindle formation starts. This stage looks very similar to mitosis prophase.
Metaphase II arranges individual chromosomes on the metaphase plate, just like in mitosis. However, because crossing over occurred in Meiosis I, the chromatids aren't identical anymore.
This means independent assortment happens again in Metaphase II, creating even more genetic variation. The random arrangement of these genetically different chromosomes adds another layer of diversity to the final gametes.