Structure and Behaviour of Chromosomes in the Strains of Cicer arietinum L

Abstract

Karyotype analysis in 12 strains of Cicer arietinum L. shows gross morphological homogeneity. Somatic chromosome number 2n=16 is constant for all the strains. The chromosomes are small to medium in size with median to submedian primary constrictions. Secondary constrictions are present in one to three pairs of chromosomes. Supernumerary constriction has been located in a pair of chromosomes in a single strain. The characteristic feature in the karyotype of all the strains is the presence of marker chromosomes which are comparatively longer and always with secondary constrictions. Uniformity has also been noted so far as the total chromosome length and volume are concerned, though their range is quite wide. These characters of the chromosome morphology may be utilised as criteria for identifying different strains. Meiotic study reveals regular eight bivalents. However, certain irregularities are present in some of the strains.