The role of hybridization in the karyotype evolution of deer (Cervidae; Artiodactyla; Mammalia)

Summary The karyotypes of 46 animals from a population ofCervus elaphus, Cervus nippon, and hybridsCervus elaphus xCervus nippon were studied using G- and C-banding techniques. It was found that four chromosome pairs known from the karyotype ofCervus elaphus are involved in two systems of Robertsonian translocations. Pedigree analysis supports the hypothesis of a simple Mendelian inheritance of each translocation system. With respect to these translocation systems, the population shows no significant deviation from the corresponding Hardy-Weinberg-structure. Thus, hybridization events can be accepted as a major factor in karyotype evolution of deer.