(Genetics) cell division that produces reproductive cells in sexually reproducing organisms; the nucleus divides into four nuclei each containing half the chromosome number (leading to gametes in animals and spores in plants)
The first stage in the division of the nucleus in the gonotokonts has therefore been termed the reductiondivision.
2
This, however, appeared later as a product of the further evolution of the zygote, and the reductiondivision was correspondingly postponed.
3
Reductiondivision and homotypic nuclear division are included together under the term allotypic nuclear division and are distinguished from the ordinary or typical nuclear division.