The cytogenetic structure of Vicia sativa aggregate

Summary The cytogenetic structure of Vicia sativa aneuploid series was assessed by examination of the chromosome pairing in hybrids between types having 2n = 10, 2n = 12 and 2n = 14. Two different karyotypes were distinguished at both the 2n = 10 and 2n = 12 levels. Chromosome pairing in hybrids involved two 2n = 10 karyotypes, indicating that the parental lines differed by two translocations. A similar indication was obtained for the two 2n = 12 karyotypes employed. The meiotic behavior of the 2n = 10 x 2n = 12 hybrids indicated that the parental lines differed by up to three translocations, some of which involved unequal chromosome segments. It has been proposed that the 2n = 10 types were developed from the 2n = 12 via centric or tandem fusion and additional rearrangements further accelerated chromosome repatterning at the two 2n levels. Hybrids between the 2n = 14 V. sativa and the former 2n types had very irregular chromosome pairing and were highly sterile. It has been proposed that the 2n = 14 type is a relatively new evolvement in V. sativa because of its shorter complement in comparison with the other karyotypes. The subterraneous pods of the 2n = 14 type, a characteristic which is absent in other V. sativa types and in the entire genus Vicia, also supports an advanced, phylogenetic position. The 2n = 14 type probably arose from n = 7 gametes produced by the 2n= 12 x 2n = 10 hybrid and the establishment of the row 2n = 14 type was acquired through conspicuous chromosome deletions. In spite of its remarkable chromosomal variation, V. sativa can still be considered, for breeding purposes, as being one gene pool. The wild forms of V. sativa can thus be valuable sources for improving the cultivated vetch.