noun
- chromosomes in which the centromere is located at or near the middle, creating two arms of approximately equal length
Usage: biology; genetics
Examples
- Human chromosomes 1, 3, 16, 19, and 20 are classified as metacentrics.
- The karyotype analysis revealed several metacentrics with clearly defined arms.
- Metacentrics are easily distinguished from other chromosome types during mitosis.
- The researcher counted twelve metacentrics in the cell’s chromosome complement.
- Unlike acrocentrics, metacentrics have centromeres positioned centrally.
- The genetics lab identified metacentrics by their symmetrical appearance under the microscope.