Cytokinesis begins during anaphase of mitosis and continues through telophase , usually finishing as the cell enters the next interphase.

Quick Scoop: Core Answer

  • In typical animal cells, cytokinesis starts shortly after sister chromatids separate in anaphase.
  • It then proceeds through telophase, with the contractile ring constricting the cell and completing division as the next interphase begins.

Mini Breakdown: Why Anaphase?

  • The onset of anaphase is when chromosomes move apart, and this spatial arrangement helps specify the division plane where the cleavage furrow will form.
  • This timing ensures each future daughter cell gets a full set of chromosomes before the cytoplasm physically splits.

Extra Exam Tip

  • Many exam-style questions expect: “Cytokinesis begins in anaphase and is completed in telophase.”
  • Also remember: mitosis = nuclear division, while cytokinesis = cytoplasmic division; cytokinesis is part of the broader M phase but not one of the four named mitotic phases (prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase).

TL;DR: Cytokinesis begins in anaphase and finishes by the end of telophase in most eukaryotic cells.

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