Abstract
Critical karyotype analyses have been carried out in 23 taxa of Balsaminaceae. The karyotypes are reminiscent of the Carex pattern indicating the operation of aneuploidy in the chromosome evolution of this family. It is suggested that secon-dary basic numbers such as 7, 9 and 10 have evolved from a primary basic number of x=8. This has led to the carving out of a probable model of chromosome phylogeny.
Hydrocera stands aloof in view of its distinctive karyotype and circumscribed distribution. The chromosome physiognomies of Impatiens leschenaultii and I. latfolia are an index of their intimate affinity.
The significant role of karyological inquiry in the assessment of phylogenetic kinship has been indicated.
