Short Answer

Telophase is the final stage of mitosis in which the separated chromosomes reach opposite ends of the cell. During this stage, chromosomes begin to uncoil and return to their original chromatin form.

In telophase, a new nuclear membrane forms around each set of chromosomes, resulting in two separate nuclei. This stage marks the completion of nuclear division and prepares the cell for cytoplasmic division.

Detailed Explanation :

Telophase

Telophase is the last stage of mitosis and occurs after anaphase. It represents the stage where the cell completes the division of its nucleus. During telophase, the changes that occurred during earlier stages of mitosis begin to reverse, and the cell starts returning to its normal state.

By the time telophase begins, sister chromatids have already separated and moved to opposite poles of the cell. Telophase focuses on reorganizing these separated chromosomes into functional nuclei. This stage is very important because it ensures that two complete and independent nuclei are formed within the cell.

Arrival of Chromosomes at Opposite Poles

One of the first events in telophase is the complete arrival of chromosomes at the opposite ends of the cell. The movement that began during anaphase is now finished.

Each pole of the cell now has an equal and complete set of chromosomes. This equal distribution is essential to ensure that both daughter cells will have identical genetic material.

Decondensation of Chromosomes

During telophase, chromosomes begin to uncoil and lose their tightly packed structure. They gradually return to their original, thin, thread-like form known as chromatin.

This decondensation is important because chromatin allows the cell to resume normal activities such as gene expression and protein synthesis. Tightly packed chromosomes are only required during division, so returning to chromatin marks the end of mitosis.

Reformation of the Nuclear Membrane

A major event during telophase is the reformation of the nuclear membrane. In earlier stages of mitosis, the nuclear membrane breaks down to allow chromosome movement.

In telophase, a new nuclear membrane forms around each group of chromosomes at opposite poles. As a result, two separate nuclei are formed within the same cell.

This step officially completes nuclear division, also known as karyokinesis.

Reappearance of the Nucleolus

Another important change during telophase is the reappearance of the nucleolus. The nucleolus had disappeared during prophase when the cell stopped normal protein production.

In telophase, the nucleolus reforms inside each new nucleus. This indicates that the cell is preparing to resume its normal metabolic activities.

Disappearance of Spindle Fibers

Spindle fibers, which played a crucial role in chromosome movement, begin to disappear during telophase. Since chromosome separation is complete, these fibers are no longer needed.

The breakdown of spindle fibers marks the end of chromosome movement and further supports the transition of the cell back to a non-dividing state.

Preparation for Cytokinesis

Although telophase completes nuclear division, the cell has not yet fully divided. Telophase prepares the cell for the next step called cytokinesis, where the cytoplasm divides.

During this stage, the cell starts showing signs of physical separation. In animal cells, a slight constriction may appear at the center of the cell. In plant cells, preparations for cell plate formation begin.

Restoration of Normal Cell Structure

Telophase helps restore the normal internal structure of the cell. The nucleus reforms, chromosomes become chromatin, and cellular organization begins to return to its interphase condition.

This restoration allows the cell to resume functions such as growth, respiration, and synthesis of molecules once cytokinesis is completed.

Importance of Telophase

Telophase is essential because it ensures the formation of two complete and functional nuclei. Without proper telophase, nuclear division would remain incomplete.

Errors during telophase can result in incomplete nuclei or loss of genetic material, which may affect cell survival and function. Therefore, telophase must occur in a controlled and orderly manner.

Telophase and Genetic Stability

By correctly reorganizing chromosomes and forming new nuclei, telophase helps maintain genetic stability. Each nucleus receives the same genetic information as the parent cell.

This accuracy is important for growth, repair, and replacement of cells in multicellular organisms.

Telophase in Living Organisms

Telophase occurs in all dividing body cells. It supports tissue growth, healing of wounds, and replacement of old cells.

In single-celled organisms, telophase helps complete reproduction by ensuring accurate division of genetic material.

Conclusion

Telophase is the final stage of mitosis in which chromosomes reach opposite poles, decondense into chromatin, and become enclosed by newly formed nuclear membranes. The nucleolus reappears, spindle fibers disappear, and two complete nuclei are formed. By completing nuclear division and preparing the cell for cytokinesis, telophase plays a crucial role in accurate cell division, genetic stability, and continuation of life.