The ant, Myrmecia pilosula, is found in Australia and is named bulldog because of its aggressive behavior. It is particularly interesting because it carries all its genetic information in a single pair of chromosomes. In other words, 2n = 2. (Males are haploid and have just one chromosome.) What would most likely represent a correct configuration of chromosomes in a metaphase I cell of a female?

All cells undergo division (mitosis or meiosis). Meiosis reduces the chromosomal number of the daughter cells by half. According to the question, The female species of Myrmecia pilosula ant has diploid cells total number of 2 chromosomes.

At the metaphase stage of meiosis I, homologous chromosomes (similar but non-identical chromosomes received from each parent) aligns at the center/equator of the cell called METAPHASE PLATE. This alignment is done when spindle fibres attach to the kinetochores of the chromosomes.

Option A in the diagram depicts this arrangement of homologous chromosomes in the centre of the cell. Note that, each chromosome has replicated to form SISTER chromatids held together at the centromere. These chromosomes will be pulled apart in the next stage (Anaphase).

Option B depicts only one replicated chromosome

Option D depicts separation of sister chromatids (only one chromosome)

Option E depicts separation of sister chromatids of two chromosomes which occurs in the Anaphase of meiosis II