What are the products of meiosis in females?

Prepare for the Fundamental Animal Microgenetics Exam with multiple choice quizzes, detailed explanations, and comprehensive study material. Ready yourself to succeed!

The products of meiosis in females primarily result in the formation of one functional ovum and a variable number of polar bodies, typically two or three. During oogenesis, which is the process of female gamete formation, meiosis begins with a primary oocyte undergoing two stages of division.

The first meiotic division results in two cells: a large secondary oocyte and a smaller polar body that usually does not participate in fertilization. The secondary oocyte then undergoes a second meiotic division, but this division is completed only if fertilization occurs. When this happens, it produces one ovum and yet another polar body.

The polar bodies serve as a means to discard the extra genetic material accumulated during the divisions without increasing the number of daughter cells, allowing for the retention of resources in the single ovum that is capable of being fertilized. This is fundamentally different from male meiosis, where the end result is typically four functional sperm cells.

Overall, the correct choice reflects the unique aspects of female meiosis and the emphasis on producing a singular viable egg along with polar bodies that do not take part in this reproductive process.

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