Cytological Studies in Lens esculenta Moench

Abstract

Detailed cytological investigations in Lens esculenta var. microsperma and macrosperma have been carried out. Mitotic and meiotic irregularities have been observed. Seven and fourteen have been found as haploid and diploid chromosome numbers respectively.
No significant morphological difference in the chromosomes of two varieties could be noticed. Karyotype has been analysed and found to be asymmetrical and belong to 2b type according to Stebbins (1958) classification. Two pairs of satellited chromosomes have been recorded for the first time.
Mitotic irregularities in the form of chromatin bridges, fragments and laggards have been observed in L. esculenta var. macrosperma. High temperature seems to be mainly responsible for their occurrence.
Meiotic abnormality in the form of inversion bridges at anaphase I have been noticed in L. esculenta var. microsperma. Pollen sterility in both varieties have been worked out.