Effect of Solar Eclipse on Cell Division in the Meristematic Root Cells of Allium sativum L

Abstract

Attempts were made to determine the effects of solar eclipse (80% totality, 16th Feb. 1980) on cell division process in meristematic root tips of Allium sativum L. Normal day light stimulated cell division. Solar eclipse was found to produce inhibitory effects on mitosis. Eclipse's day light exposures induced various mitotic chromosomal aberrations i.e. scattering/fragmentation, stickiness, eroded chromosomes, chromosomal bridges, laggards and stathmoanaphase.