Inverted meiosis: the true bugs as a model to study

Most of the meiotic literature is based on species with monocentric chromosomes, however meiosis in protoctist, plant and animal species with holocentric chromosomes is less characterized. In some cases, an inverted meiotic sequence is claimed to occur, in which segregation of homologs is postponed until the second meiotic division. Additionally, other features also deserve interest, namely: (i) the different behavior of sex chromosomes if compared to that of the autosomes; (ii) the absence of a canonical kinetochore structure; (iii) the restriction of the kinetic activity to the chromosomal ends; (iv) the variations in the orientation of bivalents at the division plate, and (v) the possible occurrence of chiasma terminalization. Here we summarize the current knowledge on these topics in the meiosis of Hemiptera (Heteroptera) and present novel results that illustrate some of the special features mentioned above. We also point out the necessity of reviewing the term 'inverted meiosis' and propose some future prospects to study this peculiar meiosis.