What is a centromere? How does the position of centromere form the basis of classification of chromosomes. Support your answer with a diagram showing the position of centromere on different types of chromosomes.
Explanation The centromere is the structure in the chromosomes in which the spindle fibers attach during the cell division. The cell division has two types the mitosis and meiosis. Centromeres are four types namely, meta-centric, sub-metacentric, acrocentric, and telocentric. Meta-centric: it is a type of chromosome in which the centromeres are present in the center. It divides the chromosomes into equal halves with both the arms of the chromosome with equal length. Sub-metacentric: it is a type of chromosome in which the centromere is located in the middle of the chromosome with slightly unequal arms. Acrocentric: it is a type in which the centromeres are located near one end of the chromosome. Telo-centric: it is a type of chromosome in which the centromeres are located at one terminal end.
