Karyotype characterization of the lake sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens (Rafinesque 1817) by chromosome banding and fluorescent in situ hybridization.

A karyotype analysis using several staining techniques was carried out on the North American lake sturgeon, Acipenser fulvescens. The chromosome number was found to be 2n = 262 +/- 6. A representative karyotype of 264 chromosomes was composed of 134 meta- and submetacentrics, 70 telo- and acrocentrics, and 60 microchromosomes. The constitutive heterochromatin, revealed by C banding, was localized in various positions on several chromosomes, including microchromosomes. The signals of fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) with a HindIII satellite DNA probe were visible as centromeric heterochromatin blocks on 48 chromosomes. The telomeric repeat (TTAGGG)n detected by FISH was localized at both ends of all chromosomes and two chromosomes were entirely marked. Fluorescent staining with GC-specific chromomycin A3 showed recognizable fluorescent regions, whereas a more uniform base composition was revealed by the AT-specific 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI). After silver staining, the active nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) were detected on 12 chromosomes. FISH with the 5S probe showed four signals on four small chromosomes. Our data suggest that A. fulvescens is a tetraploid species.     

中国五种锄足蟾科无尾两栖动物的细胞遗传学研究

本文对中国５种锄足蟾科无尾两栖动物的骨髓细胞有丝分裂中期作了细胞遗传学研究,内容包括核型、Ａｇ－ＮＯＲｓ和Ｃ－带。研究结果表明景东角蟾：２ｎ＝２６（２０Ｍ＋４ＳＭ＋２ＳＴ）,５＋８,ＳＣ和Ａｇ－ＮＯＲｓ位于６ｐ＾ｐｅｒ,同时呈Ｃ－带正染。Ｃ－带以着丝点区域正染为主;粗皮角蟾：２ｎ＝２６（２０Ｍ＋６ＳＭ）,５＋８,Ａｇ－ＮＯＲｓ在６ｑ＾ｉｎｔｅｒ,以着丝点Ｃ－带为主,但Ｎｏｓ．１２,１３有明显的端位     

Evolution of the genome size inAkodon (Rodentia,Cricetidae)

Nuclear DNA contents were estimated by microdensitometry in five species of Akodon rodents: Arodon molinae, A. dolores, A. mollis, A. azarae, Bolomys obscurus) and in three chromosomal varieties of A. molinae (2n = 42; 2n = 43, 2n = 22). The data obtained showed that the species with the highest DNA content was B. obscurus, followed in order of decreasing genome size by A. molinae, A. mollis, A. dolores and A. azarae. In A. molinae the forms with 2n = 42 chromosomes had the lowest and the forms with 2n = 44 the highest amount of DNA, while the forms with 2n = 43 had intermediate DNA contents. The variation in DNA amount detected in A. molinae was interpreted as a phenomenon of amplification occurring in the chromosomal areas involved in the chromosomal rearrangement giving rise to the polymorphism exhibited by this species. The DNA contents of shared chromosomes (chromosomes with similar size, morphology and G banding pattern, which are found in two or more phylogenetically related species), were compared and correlated with values of total nuclear DNA. The information obtained indicates that: (a) shared chromosomes have variable amounts of DNA: (b) in a given species there is a correlation between the amount of nuclear and chromosomal DNA in most shared chromosomes (and perhaps in most of the chromosomal complement), e.g., the higher the amount of nuclear DNA, the higher the content of DNA in shared chromosomes; (c) some chromosomes may undergo processes of amplification or deletion restricted to certain regions and usually related with mechanisms of chromosomal rearrangements.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Chromosomal localization of two novel repetitive sequences isolated from the Chenopodium quinoa Willd. genome

The chromosomal organization of two novel repetitive DNA sequences isolated from the Chenopodium quinoa Willd. genome was analyzed across the genomes of selected Chenopodium species. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis with the repetitive DNA clone 18-24J in the closely related allotetraploids C. quinoa and Chenopodium berlandieri Moq. (2n = 4x = 36) evidenced hybridization signals that were mainly present on 18 chromosomes; however, in the allohexaploid Chenopodium album L. (2n = 6x = 54), cross-hybridization was observed on all of the chromosomes. In situ hybridization with rRNA gene probes indicated that during the evolution of polyploidy, the chenopods lost some of their rDNA loci. Reprobing with rDNA indicated that in the subgenome labeled with 18-24J, one 35S rRNA locus and at least half of the 5S rDNA loci were present. A second analyzed sequence, 12-13P, localized exclusively in pericentromeric regions of each chromosome of C. quinoa and related species. The intensity of the FISH signals differed considerably among chromosomes. The pattern observed on C. quinoa chromosomes after FISH with 12-13P was very similar to GISH results, suggesting that the 12-13P sequence constitutes a major part of the repetitive DNA of C. quinoa.     

云南三种角蟾的细胞遗传学研究

本文研究了云南三种角蟾的核型,C－带和Ag-NORs,结果显示宽头大角蟾,其2n=26(16M 8SM 2T),NF=50,5 8,No.10为T,次缢痕和Ag－NORs位于1p per,该区域同时还呈现C－带正染,其全部染色体的着丝点都有强弱不等的C－带染色;大花角蟾的核型2n=26(16M 8SM=2ST),NF＝50,5＋8,No.6为ST,次缢痕和Ag-NORs位于5q pes,全部着丝点均有C－带正染;凹顶角蟾5n=26(16M 4SM 6T),NF=46,6 7.No.11-13为T,次缢痕和Ag-NORs位于5q per,全部着丝点及周围均有浓C－带正染。三个种均未发现与性别相关的异形染色体,最后讨论了角蟾属核型演化的途径。     

Report on Karyotypes of 10 Species of Liliaceae (s. l.) From Qinling Range

The karyotypes of 10 species of the Liliaceae from the Qinling Range are reported as follows. I. Polygonatum Mill. (1) P. odoratum ( Mill. ) Druce was found to have the karyotype 2n=20=12m+8sm ( Plate 3, Fig. I), which belongs to Stebbins’ (1971) karyotype classification 2B. The chromosomes range from 3.88 to 11.26μm in size. Table 2 shows the karyotypes and number fundamentals (N.F.) of 13 materials from 12 different localities. The N. F. of these materials can be classified into two groups: N.F. =36 and N.F.=40, besides one (N.F. =38) from Beijing. N. F. =36 covers all the materials with 2n= 18 which have relatively symmetrical karyotypes ( all consisting of m and sm chromosomes), one with 2n=20 (10m+6sm+4st) and one with 2n=22 (14m+8st). N.F. =40 include four materials with 2n= 20 (all of m and sm chromosomes ) and 3 with 2n= 22 (10m+ 8sm+ 4st). ￥ It is considered that there are two original karyotypes, 2n= 18 with N. F. = 36 and 2n= 20 with N.F. =40, which are relatively symmetrical. All the more asymmetrical karyotypes with some st chromosomes have probably evolved from the symmetrical karyotypes without st chromosomes by centric fission. (2) P. zanlanscianense Pamp. has the karyotype 2n=30=18m(2SAT) + 4sm+ 6st+ 2t (Plate 1, Fig. 1) which belongs to 2C. The chromosomes range from 2.16 to 9.76μm. ￥ II. Asparagus filicinus Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don. The karyotype of this species is 2n = 16= 8m(2SAT )+ 6sm + 2st (Plate 1, Fig. 1 and Table 3 ) , which belongs to 2B. The chromosomes range from 2.33 to 5.30μm. Most species in Asparagus, including A.Filicinus, are reported to have basic number x= 10, and therefore 2n= 16 is a new chromosome number for A.filicinus. EL-Saded et.al.(1972) gave a report of n=8 for A. stipularis from Egypt, while Delay (1947) reported 2n = 24 for A. trichophyllus and A. verticillatus, Sinla(1972 ) gave a report of 2n=48 for A.racemosus. It is certain that there are two basic numbers in the genus Asparagus. III. Cardiocrinum giganteum (Wall.) Makino was found to have the karyotype 2n=24=4m+8st+12t (Plate 1, Fig. 1 ), which belongs to 3B. The chromosomes range from 8.71 to 20.24μm. IV. Smilax discotis Warb. was shown to have the karyotype 2n=32=4m+22sm+4st (2SAT)+2t (Plate 1, Fig. 1 and Table 3), which belongs to 3C. The first pair is much longer than others. The chromosomes range from 1.79 to 9.21μm. The chromosome number and karyotype of S. discotis are both reported for the first time. V. Reineckia carnea (Andr.) Kunth is of the karyotype 2n=38=28m+10sm (Plate 2, Fig. 1 ), which belongs to 2B. The chromosomes range from 5.65 to 12.75μm. VI. Tupistra chinensis Baker was found to have the karyotype 2n=38=25m+ 13sm (Plate 2, Fig. 1), which belongs to 2B. The chromosomes range from 8.11 to 23.82μm. A pair of heterozygous chromosomes is arranged at the end of the idiogram. The eighth pair possesses an intercalary satellite. Huang et al. (1989) reported the karyotype of T. chinensis from Yunnan as 2n = 38 = 24m+ 14sm without any intercalary satellite. Nagamatsu and Noda (1970) gave a report on the karyotype of T. nutans from Bhutan, which consists of 18 pairs of median to submedian chromosomes and one pair of subterminal chromosomes. And one pair of submedian chromosomes possess intercalary satellites on their short arms. VII. Rohdea japonica (Thunb) Roth. was found to have the karyotype 2n=38=30m+6sm+2st ( Plate 2, Fig. 1), which belongs to 2B. The chromosomes range from 7.94 to 18.29μm. Nagamatsu and Noda (1970) reported that the karyotype of R.japonica from Japan was the same as that of Tupistra nutans from Bhutan. But we have not discov ered any chromosome with an intercalary satellite. VIII. Hosta Tratt. (1) H. plantaginea (Lam.) Aschers was shown to have 2n=60. The 60 chromosomes are in 30 pairs,which can be classified into 4 pairs of large chromosomes (7.32- 8.72μm ), 3 pairs of medium-sized ones (4.72-5.60μm), and 23 pairs of small ones (1.40-3.64μm), (Plate 3 ,Table 4 ). The karyotype of H. plantaginea is reported for the first time. (2) H. ventricosa (Salisb.) Stearn was counted to have 2n=120, The 120 chromosomes are in 60 pairs, which can be classified into 8 pairs of large chromosomes (7.00- 8.40μm ), 6 pairs of medium-sized ones(4.40- 6.15um ), 46 pairs of small ones (1.20- 3.85μm), (Plate 3, Table 4). Based on the karyotypes of H. plantaginea and H. ventricosa, the latter is probably a tetraploid in the genus Hosta. Kaneko (1968b) gave a report on the karyotype of H. ventricosa, which is of8 pairs of large chromosomes, 4 pairs of medium-sized and 48 pairs of small ones.     

A Chromosomal Study on 7 Species of Smilax L.

The chromosome numbers and karyotypes of 7 species of Smilax L. in Liliaceae (s. 1.) are cytotaxonomically studied in this work. Their karyotypic characters, distinction between the species and the chromosomal basis of sexual differentiation are discussed. The karyotypes of most species are first reported. The results are shown as follows (see Tables 1-4 for the chromosome parameters and the karyotype constitution; Fig. 1 for their idiograms): 1. Smilax nipponica Miq. The species is one of the herbaceous species distributed in East Asia. Two karyotypes, 2n = 26(type A) and 2n = 32 (type B), are found in the species (Plate 1: 1-7). The karyotype of No. 88032 (uncertain of -L--M--S- sexuality) is 2n = 26 = 2m + 6st + 6m + 4sm + 6sm + 2st. The karyotype has 4 pairs of L chromosomes, of which the first three pairs are subterminal, and the 4th is median. The karyotype belongs to 3B. No. 88045 (the male) and No. 88046 (the female) have 2n = 32. Their karyotypes are basically uniform, and both are -L--M-- S 2n=32= 2m+4sm+ 2st+ 2m+4sm+ 6m+ 10sm + 2st, also with 4 pairs of L chromosomes, but the 2nd pair is median, and thus different from the type A. The karyotype belongs to 3B. The first pair of chromosomes of the male are distinctly unequal in length, with the D. V. (0.93) of relative length between them obviously greater than that of the female (0.1). The pair seems to be of sex-chromosomes. Sixteen bivalents (n= 16) were observed at PMCs MI of No. 88045 (Plate 1: 4). The major difference between the karyotypes A and B are greater relative length of L chromosomes in the type A than in the type B, and the increase of chromosome number in the karyotype B mainly due to the increase of st chromosomes. Nakajima (1937)reports 2n= 30 for S. hederacea var. nipponica (=S. nipponica, Wang and Tang, 1980). 2. S. riparia A. DC. This species is also herbaceous, distributed in East Asia. Thirty chromosomes were found in root-tip cells (uncertain of sexuality). The kar -L--M--S-yotype is 2n = 30 = 8st + 6sm + 2st + 6m + 6sm + 2st (Plate 3: 1, 5), consisting mainly of sm and st chromosomes. There are 4 pairs of L chromosomes which are all subterminal and the m chromosomes appear to fall all into S category. Though the karyotype belongs to 3B, it is less symmetrical than that of S. nipponica. The species is karyologically rather different from S. nipponica, therefore. The first pair of chromosomes of this material are unequal in length, and it may be a male. The karyotype of this species is first reported. 3. S. sieboldii Miq. The species is a thorny climbing shrub, distributed in East Asia. At PMCs All, 16 chromosomes (n= 16) were found (Plate 2: 6), in accordance with Nakajima's (1933) report for a Japanese material. 4. S. china L. This species, a thorny climbing shrub, is of a wide distribution range mainly in East Asia and Southeast Asia. Two karyotypes were observed in different populations. (1) The population from Xikou has 2n = 96(6x) = 20st+L- -M- 6t + 6sm + 12st + 52(S) (Plate 3:7), of which the first three pairs of chromosomes are terminal, different from those in the other species. The arm ratios of both L and M chromosomes are larger than 2.0, which resembles those of S. davidiana. (2) PMCs MI of the population from Shangyu shew 15 chromosomes (n 15). The hexaploid of the species is recorded for the first time. Hsu (1967,1971) reported 2n = 30 from Taiwai and Nakajima (1937) recorded n = 30 from Japan, which indicates that the karyotype of the species varies not only in ploidy, but also in number. 5. S. davidiana A. DC. The somatic cells were found to have 32 chromosomes, and PMCs MI shew 16 bivalents (Plate 2: 1-5). The karyotype is 2n = 32=-L- -M- -S 8st + 4sm + 4st + 8sm + 8st. The karyotype belongs to 3B, and is less symmetrical than those in herbaceous species. The D. V. (0.20) of relative length between the two homologues of the first pair is slightly larger in the male than in the female (0.14), and it is thus difficult to determine whether they are sexual chromosomes or not. 6. S. glabra Roxb. The species is a non-thorny climbing shrub, distributed in East Asia and Southeast Asia. 32 chromosomes were found in somatic cells. The -L- -M- - Skaryotype is 2n= 32= 8st + 10st+6sm+8st (Plate 3: 2, 6),with only 3 pairs of sm chromosomes (12, 13 and 16th). The karyotype is more asymmetric than that of S. davidiana, although it is also of 3B (Table 1). The karyotype is first reported for the species. 7. S. nervo-marginata Hay. var. liukiuensis (Hay.) Wang et Tang The variety has a relatively narrow distribution range, mainly occurring in eastern China. The chromosomal number of somatic cells is 2n= 32 (Plate 3: 3-4). The karyotype is -L- -M- -S 2n = 32 = 2sm + 6st + 2sm + 2st + 2m + 6sm + 12st, evidently different from that of S. glabra. The first pair of chromosomes are submedian, and much longer than the 2nd to 4th pairs. The ratio in length of the largest chromosome to the smallest one is 4.3. The symmetric degree is of 3C, a unique type. The karyotype of the species is reported for the first time. In Smilax, the known basic numbers are 13, 15, 16 and 17. The two herbaceous species distributed in East Asia have three basic numbers: 13, 15 and 16, while the woody species studied mainly have 16, with no 13 recorded. Mangaly (1968) studied 8 herbaceous species in North America and reported 2n=26 for them except S. pseudo-china with 2n=30. Mangaly considered that a probably ancestral home of Smilax, both the herbaceous and woody, is in Southeast Asia and the eastern Himalayas, and speculated that the ancestral type of Sect. Coprosmanthus is possibly an Asian species, S. riparia. The karyotypes of the two herbaceous species in East Asia consist mostly of sm and m chromosomes, whereas those for the North American species are all of st chromosomes. Based on the general rule of karyotypic evolution, i.e. from symmetry to asymmetry, his speculation seems reasonable. Researches on sex-chromosomes of Smilax have been carried out since 1930 (Lindsay, 1930; Jensen, 1937; Nakajima, 1937; Mangaly, 1968), and they are generally considered to be the largest pair, but there is still no adequate evidence. The result of our observation on S. nipponica may confirm that the first pair of chromosomes of this species is XY type of sex-chromosomes. Chromosomes of the genus are small and medium-sized, varying between 1-6 μm, slightly larger in herbaceous species than in woody ones, larger in the karyotype of 2n=26 than in that of 2n=32. Based on karyotype constitution of the above 5 species, the karyotype in the genus is characterized by 4 pairs of L chromosomes and 2-5 pairs of M chromosomes, and mostly st and sm chromosomes, and by rather asymmetrical 3B type. The degree of symmetry in the above 5 species is from Sect. Coprosmanthus to Sect. Coilanthus, and herbaceous species towoody ones.     

豆科三属八种植物的核型及rDNA定位研究

对豆科槐属的国槐(SophorajaponicaL.)、五叶槐(S.japonicaL.f.oligophyllaFranch.)、龙爪槐(S.japonicaL.f·pendulaLoud.)、黄金槐(S.xanthanthaC.Y.Ma.)(以上均为四倍体,2n=4x=28)、红花槐(S.rubrifloraTsoong.,2n=3x=21),刺槐属的刺槐(Robiniapseudoa-caciaL.,2n=2x=22)、毛洋槐(R.hispidaL.,2n=2x=30)和紫穗槐属的紫穗槐(AmorphafruticosaL.,2n=2x=40)核型进行了分析,并应用荧光原位杂交技术进行了45SrDNA的染色体定位。槐属4个四倍体种各具4个45SrDNA位点,位于两对染色体的着丝粒周围;红花槐,3个45SrDNA位点位于第5组染色体随体区域。刺槐,4个rDNA位点位于两对随体染色体端部;毛洋槐,8个rDNA位点,4个位于两对染色体的随体及次缢痕,另4个位于两对染色体着丝粒周围。紫穗槐,6个45SrDNA位点,分别位于3对染色体的着丝粒和随体。本文对rDNA作为染色体标记在核型分析中的应用及在基因组中的分布特点进行了讨论。     

Cytogenetical studies in five Atlantic Anguilliformes fishes

The order Anguilliformes comprises 15 families, 141 genera and 791 fish species. Eight families had at least one karyotyped species, with a prevalence of 2n = 38 chromosomes and high fundamental numbers (FN). The only exception to this pattern is the family Muraenidae, in which the eight species analyzed presented 2n = 42 chromosomes. Despite of the large number of Anguilliformes species, karyotypic reports are available for only a few representatives. In the present work, a species of Ophichthidae, Myrichthys ocellatus (2n = 38; 8m+14sm+10st+6a; FN = 70) and four species of Muraenidae, Enchelycore nigricans (2n = 42; 6m+8sm+12st+16a; FN = 68), Gymnothorax miliaris (2n = 42; 14m+18sm+10st; FN = 84), G. vicinus (2n = 42; 8m+6sm+28a; FN = 56) and Muraena pavonina (2n = 42; 6m+4sm+32a; FN = 52), collected along the Northeastern coast of Brazil and around the St Peter and St Paul Archipelago were analyzed. Typical large metacentric chromosomes were observed in all species. Conspicuous polymorphic heterochromatic regions were observed at the centromeres of most chromosomes and at single ribosomal sites. The data obtained for Ophichthidae corroborate the hypothesis of a karyotypic diversification mainly due to pericentric inversions and Robertsonian rearrangements, while the identification of constant chromosome numbers in Muraenidae (2n = 42) suggests a karyotype diversification through pericentric inversions and heterochromatin processes.     

Cytotaxonomical Studies on Liliaceae (s.l.): (2) Report on Chromosome Numbers and Karyotypes of 8 Species of 8 Genera from Zhejiang,China

Eight species in eight genera of Liliaceae from Zhejiang were cytotaxonomically studied in this work. The karyotypes of Chinese materials of these species are mostly reported for the first time. The results are shown as follows (see Table 2-4 for chromosome parameters of them): 1. Disporum sessile D. Don Sixteen chromosomes are counted at metaphase of roottip cells.The Karyotype formula is 2n=16=2lm+2sm+4st+2sm+3sm+ 1sm(SAT)+2st (Plate 1: 2-3, see Fig. 1:1 for its idiogram). The Karyotype belongs to 3B in Stebbins’ (1971) karyotype classification, and consists of four pairs of larger chromosomes (1-4) and four pairs of smaller chromosomes (5-8). One SAT-chromosome is situated at the sixth pair. The chromosomes range between 4.85-16.63μm. The karyotypic constitution is similar to that of Japanese material reported by Noguchi (1974). Chang and Hsu (1974) reported 2n=14=13st+1sm and 2n= 16=2m + 13st + 1sm for the material from Taiwan under the name of D. shimadai Hay. (=D. sessile D. Don). Compared with our result of D. sessile, the differences are obvious. 2. Polygonatum odoratum (Mill.) Druce PMCs diakinesis shows eleven bivalents, n = 11, 5 large and 6 small (Plate 2:5). The meiosis is normal. The majority of reports of this species are 2n=20, with a few 2n=22 and 30 (see Table 1). The materials from southen Siberia and the Far East in USSR are all of 2n= 20. Our result is the same as recorded by Jinno (1966) in the Japanese material and by Li (1980) from Beijing. Ge (1987) reported 2n=20 in the cultivated individuals of Shandong, China, showing that both 2n=20 and 22 exist in China. 3. Scilla scilloides (Lindl.) Druce This species has the somatic chromosome number 2n=18 (Plate 1: 4-6, see Fig. 1:2 for its idiogram), of which two groups of chromosomes can be recognized, i.e. the 1 st -5 th pairs of large and the 6 th-9th pairs of small chromosomes. A distinct character of the karyotype is that two satellites are attached to the short arms of the 1st pair of chromosomes. The degree of asymmetry is of 3C. The karyotype formula is 2n = 18 = 2sm (SAT) + 6st + 2t+ 6m + 2sm. The chromosomes range from 2.02 to 11.93 μm. The Previous counts on the species are 2n = 16, 18, 26, 34, 35, 36 and 43 (see Table 1). The present investigation confirms Noda’s and Haga’s results. The species is considered to be of two genomes, namely A(x = 8) and B(x = 9). Our result shows a genome composition of BB, having a pair of large SAT-chromosomes. Chang and Hsu (1974) reported 2n = 34 from a population of Taiwan, an amphidiploid (AABB), Karyotypes of other Chinese populations are worth further researches. 4. Tricyrtis macropoda Miq. The chromosome number of somatic cells is 2n= 26, and PMCs MII shows 13 bivalents (n= 13) (Plate 3:1-3, see Fig. 1:3 for its idiogram). The karyotype formula is 2n= 26= 6m + 10sm + 6st + 4st (or t), which is composed of chromosomes: 4L + 22S in size. The degree of asymmetry is of 3B. No centromeres of the 12th and 13th pairs of chromosomes were observed at metaphase, and the chromosomes may be of st or t. Nakamura (1968) reported 2n= 26(4L+ 22S)= 2sm+ 2sm-st+ 14st-sm+ 8st for T. macropoda Miq. and 2n= 26(4L+ 22S)= 8m+ 2sm+2sm-st+ 2st-sm+ 12st for its ssp. affinis, both from Japan. It is clear that the major character of their karyotypes, i. e. 4L + 22S, is consistent with that reported here. Based on the previous and present reports, all Tricyrtis species studied are remarkably uniform in the basic karyotype, i. e. 4L + 22S. 5. Allium macrostemon Bunge. The present observation on the root-tip cells of the species shows 2n = 32 (Plate 3: 4-5, see Fig. 1:4 for its idiogram). The karyotype formula is 2n (4x)= 32= 26m + 6sm, which belongs to 2B, being of high symmetry. Except the 6th, 10th and 13th pairs of chromosomes all the are metacentric. Chromosomes of this species are large, ranging from 5.94 to 18.06 μm. Our result agrees with Kawano’s (1975) report under the name of A. grayi Regel ( = A. macrostemon, Wang and Tang 1980). 6. Asparagus cochinchinensis (Lour.) Merr. Ten bivalents were observed in PMCs MI, n=10 (Plate 1: 1). The present result confirms the number of a population of Taiwan recorded by Hsu (1971). 7. Ophiopogon japonicus (L. f.) Ker-Gawl. The species from Mt. Taogui, Hangzhou, is found to have 2n (2x)=36=22m + 14sm (Plate 2: 1,5, see Fig. 1:5 for its idiogram) which belongs to 2B. The karyotype is composed of 2 medium-sized chromosomes with metacentric centromeres and 34 small chromosomes, ranging from 1.34 to 4.92 μm. The populations from Mt. Tianzhu and Mt. Yuling, Zhejiang, are found to be aneuploids at tetraploid level (2n=64-70). It is interesting that Nagamatsu (1971) found the karyotypes of Japanese materials to be 2n= 67 and 68, also showing unsteady 4x karyotypes of this species. In the previous. reports (see Table 1), the chromosome numbers of this species are mainly 2n = 72, besides 2n = 36 recorded by Sato (1942) from Japan. 8. Liriope platyphylla Wang et Tang The somatic complement of the species collected from Mt. Tianzhu, Hangzhou, is 2n = 36 (Plate 2: 3-4, see Fig. 1:6 for its idiogram). The karyotype is 2n(2x) = 36 = 16m + 20sm, belonging to 2B type. The chromosomes are small except the medium-sized, 1st pair and the range is from 1.27 to 5.19μm. The material from Mt. Yuling, Zhejiang, is found to have a variety of chromosome numbers (2n= 60-71), as observed in Ophiopogon japonicus. Hasegawa (1968) reported the karyotype of 2n = 72 (4x) from Japan The 2x karyotype is first recorded. This genus is closely related to Ophiopogon. Based on the Hasegawa’s and present studies, all the species in these two genera are remarkably uniform in karyo-type. Therefore, the taxonomy of the two genera is worth further researches.     

Karyotype analysis and physical mapping of 45S rDNA in eight species of Sophora,Robinia, and Amorpha

The karyotype analysis and physical locations of 45S rDNA were carried out by means of fluorescence in situ hybridization in three species,and two forms of Sophora,two species of Robina,and one species of Amorpha.S.japonica L.,S.japonica L.f.oligophylla Franch.,S.japonica L.f.pendula Loud.,and S.xanthantha C.Y.Ma.are all tetraploids with 2n=28.There were four 45S rDNA sites in pericentromeric regions of two Pairs of chromosomes in each of them.S.rubriflora Tsoong.is a triploid with 2n=21,and three sites were located in each satellite of group 5 chromosomes.In R.pseudoacacia L.(2n=2x=22),we examined four intensive signals in telomeric regions of two pairs of satellite chromosomes.In R.hispida L.(2n=2x=30),there were four other signals in centromeric regions besides those like in R.pseudoacacia.Amorpha fruticosa L.has most chromosomes(2n=40)among the eight materials,however,there were only six 45S rDNA loci and they laid in centromeric regions,and satellites of three pairs of chromosomes.45S rDNA is a valuable chromosomal landmark in karyotype analysis.The distribution and genomic organization Of rDNA in the three genera were also discussed.     

Chromosome elimination and sex determination in springtails (Insecta, Collembola).

A post-zygotic mechanism of sex determination is described in the two symphypleonans Dicyrtomina ornata (Nicolet) and Ptenothrix italica Dallai. The process consists of the loss of two sex chromosomes from the male embryo. At the end of the first meiotic division of spermatogenesis, a second chromosome elimination occurs, allowing half the secondary spermatocytes, later transformed into spermatids, to receive a complete haploid set of chromosomes. The secondary spermatocytes, which receive an incomplete set of chromosomes, degenerate. Males of the two collembolan species, therefore, produce a reduced number (50%) of spermatozoa. Females of D. ornata have 2n = 12 and males 2n = 10 chromosomes; females of P. italica have 2n = 14 and males 2n = 12 chromosomes. In both species, oogenesis proceeds normally and chromosomes pair and form chiasmata in meiotic prophase. The adaptive significance of this post-zygotic mechanism of sex determination is discussed. The mechanism seems to be a characteristic feature of the suborder Symphypleona. The neanurid Arthropleona Anurida maritima (Guérin), which was studied for comparative analysis, has 2n = 8 chromosomes and normal spermatogenesis producing haploid nuclei with four chromosomes. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 285:215-225, 1999.     

Tetraploid-octoploid relationships and karyological evolution in the order Acipenseriformes (Pisces) karyotypes,nucleoli, and nucleolus-organizer regions in four acipenserid species

The karyotypes of four Acipenseriformes species, Acipenser gueldenstaedti, 2n=250±8, A. ruthenus, A. stellatus and Huso huso, 2n=118±2, are described. In all four karyotypes the majority of chromosomes are meta- and submetacentric macrochromosomes, and microchromosomes of different morphology make up about one third of the set. In A. ruthenus the NORs are located in the telomeric region of a pair of microchromosomes and at least in one pair of middle-size acrocentrics, and in A. stellatus and Huso huso also in the telomeric regions of at least one pair of microchromosomes. The modal number of active nucleoli in A. gueldenstaedti nuclei amounts to 6–8 (range 2–12), in A. ruthenus, A. stellatus and H. huso nuclei to 2–3 (range 1–6). The data obtained point to the tetraploid origin of Acipenseriformes species with 120 chromosomes and to the octoploid origin of species with 240–260 chromosomes.     

Effect of single alien chromosome from shallot (Allium cepa L. Aggregatum group) on carbohydrate production in leaf blade of bunching onion (A. fistulosum L.)

We used a complete set of Allium fistulosum - shallot (A. cepa Aggregatum group) monosomic addition lines (FF+1A - FF+8A) to identify shallot chromosomes affecting the production of sugars. In the alien addition lines grown over two years in an experimental field at Yamaguchi University (34 degrees N, 131 degrees E), shallot chromosomes 2A and 8A altered sugar contents in leaf-bunching onion (A. fistulosum). Except for FF+2A, every monosomic addition accumulated non-reducing sugars in winter leaf blades. FF+8A caused an increase in the amounts of non-reducing sugars in the winter. FF+2A hardly produced non-reducing sugar throughout the two-year study. These results indicated that genes related to non-reducing sugar metabolism are located on the 2A and 8A chromosomes. The results of regression analyses using 2002 data on A. fistulosum and the monosomic addition set revealed a correlation (r = 0.63 +/- 0.07; mean +/- SE., n = 9) between reducing sugar and monosaccharide (Glc+Fru) contents but no correlation between non-reducing sugar and sucrose contents. This result indicates the existence of other polysaccharides (e.g., scorodose) as non-reducing sugars in the leaf blade.     

Chromosome Studies of 10 Chinese Species of Adenophora Fisch.

This paper is a cytological part of biosystematic studies on Adenophora Fisch. in Heilongjiang, China. Chromosomal numbers and karyotypes of 10 spp. and 1 var. are reported. The results are summarized in Table 1. The chromosomal numbers and karyotypes of 6 spp. and 1 var. are first reported, including tetraploid species (2n=68) (A. pereskiifolia var. alternifolia, A. amurica and A. gmelinii). The basic number of chromosomes in the genus is mainly 17 (x=17), but that of A. trachelioides and A. remotiflora (2n=36) is 18 (x=18), an unique one in the genus. The karyotypes of all the species examined are relatively uniform, which means that they are derived from a common ancestral type. The chromosomes are smaller, varying between 2-4 μm. The majority of chromosomes are m and sm ones. And a pair of sat-chromosomes and a pair of st chromosomes are always present. The centromeric terminalization value of chromosomes is 57.5-61.9%, showing higher symmetry of karyotypes in the genus. The karyotype of A. tetraphylla (2n=34) is the most symmetrical among these species. Based on its morphological characters and distribution, the species may be considered as a relatively primitive member of the genus. The results show two revolutionary trends in karyotypes of the genus: number variation (including polyploidy and aneuploidy) and structural variation. The polyploidy is one of the principal patterns of speciation in the genus. Combined with the other characters, these species are taxonomically discussed, and two new taxa (A. amurica Fu et Liu and A. pereskiifolia ssp. alternifolia (Fuh ex Y. Z. Zhao) Fu et Liu) are confirmed. A. trachelioides and A. remotiflora (both 2n=36) with obvious petioles seems more advanced than the other species (2n 34).     

A Chromosomal Study of Eight Species in Allium Sect. Rhiziridium G. Don in China

The present paper reports the chromosome numbers and karyotypes of eight species of Sect. Rhiziridium in Allium (Liaceae). The materials were all collected from their natural populations in east Inner Mongolia, China. The karyotype analysis is made on the basis of Li et al. (1985).The results are as follows (for chromosomes parameters, voucher specimens and localities, see Table 1 and Plate 1--2 the idiograms of the eight species in Fig. 1): (1) Auium leucocephalum Turcz. The somatic chromosome number and karyotype of this species is 2n=16=12m=2sm+2st (2SAT), in Stebbinsl(1971) kayotype classification, which belongs to 2A (Plate 1: 1; Fig. 1: 1). The range of chromosome relative length varies between 8.90--15.55%. Two small satellites are attached to the short arms of the 8th pair of chromosomes. (2) A. strictum Schrader has 2n (4x) =32=16m+4sm+12st, belonging to 2B (Plate 1: 2 & Fig. 1: 2). Satellites were not observed., and the range of chromosome relative length is between 3. 67-11.00%. (3) A. ramosum L. 2n=16=14m+ 2st (2SAT), belonging to 2A (Plate 1: 3 & Fig. 1: 3), Two small satellies are attached to the short arms of the 8th pair of chromosomes. The range of chromosome relative length is between 9.17-16.39%. The chromosome number and karyotype of this species are in accordancewith those reported by Li et al. (1982) with the material from Jinshan, Beijing. (4) A. bidentatum Fisch. ex Prokh. 2n (4x) =32=24m+4sm+4T, belonging to 2B (Plate 1: 4 & Fig. 1: 4). Satellites were not observed. A small median B-chromosome was found in root-tip cells of the population growing in sandy soil, and it is the first discovery (Plate 2: 9). The species has terminal chromosomes, which are seldom seen in Sect. Rhiziridium. The range of chromosome relative length is between 3.32—9.06%. (5) A. tenuissimu L. 2n=16= 10m+4sm+2st(2SAT), belonging to 2B(Plate 1:5 & Fig. 1:5). Two large satellites are attached to the short arms of the 8th pair of chromosome. The range of chromosome relative length is between 8.27--17.56%. (6)A. anisopodium Ledeb. 2n = 16 = l2m +2sm + 2st (2SAT), belonging to 2A (Plate 2:7 & Fig. 1: 7). Two large satellites are attached to the short arms of the 8th pair of chromosomes. In somatic cells of some plants of this species, a small submedian B-chromosome was found (Plate 2: 10, 11). The range of chromosome relative length is between 8.05-17.08 %. (7) A. anisopodium Ledeb. var. zimmermannianum (Gilg) Wang et Tang 2n (4x)=32=24m+4sm+4st( 4SAT), belonging to 2A (Plate 1: 6 & Fig. 1: 6). Four large satellites are attached to the short arms of the 15 and 16th pairs of chromosomes. The range of chromosome relative length is between 4.45--8.35%. This variety is similar to A. anisopodium Ledeb. in morphological characters, and their karyotype formulas are also very similar. The present authors consider that the variety is an allotetraploid derived from A. anisopodium Ledeb. (8) A. condensatum Turcz. 2n=16=14m+2st (2SAT), belonging to 2B (Plate 2:8 & Fig. 1:8). Two. small satellites are attached to the short arms of the 6th pair of chromosomes. In a few individuals of this species median (M) B-chromosome was discovered, and the number is stable (Plate 2: 12). The range of chromosome relative length is between 7.64--17.07%. In short, the chromosome numbers of the species studied in the present work are found to be 2n=16 or 32, and the karyotypes belong to 2A or 2B, highly symmetrical. The karyotypes of Chinese materials of these species are mostly reported for the first time. Threespecies have B-chromosomes.     

贵州大树茶的核型变异与进化

本文对贵州大树茶7种1变种11类型的核型进行了分析。结果表明,这些种类均为二倍体2n＝30。五室茶Camellia quinquelocularis 2n＝30＝24m+6sm;四球茶C．tetracocca 2n＝30=22m+8sm;大理茶C．taliensis 2n=30＝22m+8sm;秃房茶C．gymnogyna 2n＝30＝22m+6sm+2st与2n=30＝20m+8sm+2st;假秃房茶C. gymnogynoides 2n＝30=22m+6sm+2st与2n＝30=20m+8sm+2st;榕江茶C. jungkiangensis 2n＝30+20m+8sm+2st;茶C．sinensis 2n=30＝20m+8sm+2st以及变种淡红花茶C．sinensis var．ruolla 2n＝30=20m+8sm+2st;均属2A核型。染色体结构变异在茶组植物演化中起了重要作用。所划分的两大类核型,即m和sm类与m,sm,和st类是与其子房室数,即5室和3室相一致的。根据核型的不对称性程度、外部形态及生化分析,探讨了各种类的亲缘关系与系统演化途径,论证了茶组植物的原产地是位于滇、桂、黔毗邻交汇处的云贵高原,探讨了茶组植物的分类学问题。     

Karyotype Variation and Evolution of Sect. Thea in Guizhou

Karyotypes of seven species, one variety and 11 forms of Sect. Thea occurring in Guizhou Province, were investigated by the wall degradation hypotonic method. The micrographs of their somatic metaphase are shown in plates 1-2 and the parameters of chromosomes according to Li and Chen (1985) are given in Table 1 and the idiograms in Fig. 1. The karyotype formulae are as follows: Camellia quinquelocularis 22=30=24m+6sm; C. tetracocca 2n=30=22m+8sm; C. taliensis 2n=30=22m+8sm; C. gymnogyna 2n=30=22m +6sm+2st and 2n=30=20m=8sm+2st; C. gymnogynoides 2n=30=22m +6sm+2st and 2n=30=20m+8sm+2st; C. jungkiangensis 2n=30=20m+8sm+2st; C. sinensis 2n =30+20m+8sm+2st, and C. sinensis var. ruoella 2n=30=20m+8sm+2st. All the karyotypes belong to Stebbins “2A”. The following main aspects are discussed. 1. Chromosome numbers: All these species are found to have 2n=30. Based on the previous and present reports, It clearly indicates that evolution of this group has taken place mainly on diploid level, but not on polyploid one. 2. The karyotype variation: Generally, all the karyotypes examined are similar, but according to symmetry of karyotype, they may be grouped into two types. One is characterized by metacentric (m)and submetacentric (sm)chromosomes, involving C. quinquelochlaris, C. tetracocca, C. taliensis, while the other is characterized by a pair of subtelocentric (st) chromosome besides m and sm chromosomes, involving C. gymnogyna, C. gymnogynoides, C. jungkiangensis, C. sinensis and C. sinensis var. ruoella. It is suggested that the mechanism for karyotype variation and speciation in Sect. Thea be pericentric inversion or reciprocal translocation. The first type is more symmetrical than the second one, and is thus relatively primitive. 3. The orginal center of Sect. Thea: Based on the analysis of karyotypes, morphological characters, geographical distribution and biochemical features, the authors consider that the Yunnan-Guizhou plateau including the contiguous area in Yunnan, Guangxi and Guizhou is the original center, from where it radiated, resulting in the present distribution pattern of Sect. Thea.4. Taxonomic treatment of Sect. Thea: The taxonomic treatment of Sect. Thea is complicated and still confused up to now. The number of species is more than 40 according to Zhang’s taxonomic system (1984), but, recently, most of them are reduced by Min (1992). Further work should be based on the concept of morphological discontinuity and in formation from other branches of sciences. Whether two types of karyotype are two biological species remains questionable.     

Karyological differences of the Northern Dolly Varden Salvelinus malma malma and the white char Salvelinus albus from the Kamchatka River basin

The karyotypes of northern Dolly Varden and white char, sympathrically inhabiting the Kamchatka River basin, were studied. The karyotype of Dolly Varden was stable: 2n = 78 and NF = 98 + 2, while in white char, polymorphism and mosaicism for the chromosome number were revealed: 2n = 76-79, NF = 98 + 2. Using a routine chromosome staining technique, the karyotype of white char (2n = 78) was shown to be identical to that of Dolly Varden. In both karyotypes, similar sets of marker chromosomes were present: two pairs of submetacentric (SM), one pair of submeta-subtelocentric (SM-ST), one pair of large acrocentric (A), and one pair of large sub-telocentric (ST) chromosomes. However, the karyotypes of Dolly Varden and white char differed in the number and location of nucleolus organizer regions (NORs). In Dolly Varden, single NORs located in the telomeric regions of the marker SM-ST chromosomes were observed. In white char, NORs were multiple and located both in the telomeric regions of the marker SM-ST chromosomes and on the short and long arms of large ST chromosomes. The identical marker chromosomes indicate considerable phylogenetic relatedness between Dolly Varden and white char from the Kamchatka River basin. Variation in NORs provides evidence for the reproductive isolation of these chars and their species status.     

Genomic in situ hybridization in plants with small genomes is feasible and elucidates the chromosomal parentage in interspecific Arabidopsis hybrids.

Genomic in situ hybridization (GISH) is a useful tool to analyse natural polyploids, hybrid plants, and their backcross progenies as to their origin, genomic composition, and intergenomic rearrangements. However, in angiosperms with very small genomes (<0.6 pg/1 C), often only heterochromatic regions were found to be labeled. We have modified the GISH technique to label entire mitotic and meiotic chromosomes of Arabidopsis thaliana (2n = 10) and closely related species with very small genomes by using high concentrations of DNA (7.5-15 microg per probe per slide) or 5 microg of probe and long hybridization times (>60 h). According to our GISH data, Cardaminopsis carpatica (2n = 16) is most likely the diploid ancestor of the autotetraploid Arabidopsis arenosa (2n = 32). Furthermore, within the allotetraploid species Arabidopsis suecica (2n = 26), it was possible to elucidate the origin of chromosomes contributed by the parental species A. thaliana and A. arenosa for a specimen with 2n = 26 or a deviating chromosome number.