14. 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.
A centromere refers to a non- stainable area that attaches two chromatids of a chromosome. On the basis of position of centromerechromosomes can be of following types.
1. Acrocentric chromosomes- Centromere is present sub-terminal regions, chromatids are arranged in J-shaped
2. Metacentric chromosome- Centromere is present in the centre and the chromosome appears V-shaped.
3. Sub-metacentric chromosome- Position of centromere is sub-median. It appears L-shaped
4. Telocentric chromosome- Centromere is terminally placed. Chromoosme appears I-shaped