What are the tiny fibers seen during cell division that radiate from two poles called?

The tiny fibers that radiate from two poles during cell division are referred to as the spindle. This structure is essential in the process of mitosis and meiosis, where it plays a critical role in the segregation of chromosomes. As the cell prepares to divide, the spindle fibers emanate from the centrosomes located at each pole of the cell. These fibers attach to the kinetochores on the chromosomes, ensuring that each daughter cell receives an accurate number of chromosomes.

The spindle's formation and function are vital for proper cell division because any errors can lead to an unequal distribution of chromosomes, potentially resulting in conditions such as aneuploidy. The spindle apparatus essentially guides the movement of chromosomes, enabling them to align correctly and then separate during the division process. Understanding the role of the spindle in cell division is crucial for grasping the complexities of cellular reproduction and genetics.