During metaphase I of meiotic cell division, tetrads composed of homologous chromosomes line up at the center of the cell. This is a crucial step in meiosis where homologous chromosomes, each consisting of two sister chromatids, align at the metaphase plate. The alignment is facilitated by the spindle fibers attaching to the centromeres of each homologous chromosome pair.
This process ensures that each daughter cell will receive one chromosome from each homologous pair, contributing to genetic diversity. The other options listed do not occur during metaphase I:
- Homologous chromosomes separate during anaphase I.
- Sister chromatid pairs line up at the center of the cell during metaphase II of meiosis.