Question

In the female, the development of the "egg" halts during TWO stages, _________ and __________

Answer 1

Answer: The blanks can be correctly filled up with prophase I and metaphase II.

Explanation:

In females, finite number of oocytes are present since birth. The process of oogenesis initiate in embryonic stage only. However, oogonia divide and mature to form primary oocytes. These primary oocytes start meiotic division but arrest in prophase I stage before birth.

After a girl attains puberty, one primary oocyte resumes its division each month during a menstrual cycle. The primary oocyte divides to form secondary oocyte and polar body.

Polar bodies degenerate after completing meiosis II. However, secondary oocyte halts its division again at metaphase II until fertilization takes place. Once fertilization takes place it completes its meiosis II and results into mature ovum and polar body.