ISSN 2375-1134
African Journal of Agriculture ISSN 2375-1134 Vol. 11 (7), pp. 001-004, July, 2024. Available online at https://internationalscholarsjournals.org/journal/ajaoas/table-of-contents © International Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
Exploring Chromosomal Variability in Nigerian Solanum L. Species: A Cytogenetic Perspective
Gordian C. Obute*, Benjamin C. Ndukwu and Bosa.E. Okoli
Plant Science and Biotechnology Department, University of Port Harcourt, PMB 5323, Port Harcourt.
Accepted 26 March, 2024
Abstract
Cytogenetic studies to determine the chromosome number, structure and behaviour of some species of SOLANUM in Nigeria were carried out. Attempt was also made to induce polyploidy in the species. Comparative analysis of the cytological behaviour of the diploid and polyploid cytotypes was made. The studies show that the somatic chromosome number in the genus SOLANUM is 2n = 24. Colchiploidisation produced tetraploids with 2n = 48 and aneuploids with 2n = 69. The karyotype analysis indicates that the chromosomes were generally very small. There were also slight variations in centromeric positions and arm lengths. Meiotic behaviour of the chromosomes involved a combination of bivalent and multivalent associations especially at the polyploid levels. The significance of this work in the understanding of cytogenetic behaviour of plants and crop improvement efforts are discussed.
Key words: Cytogenetics, Solanum, colchiploidisation, crop improvement.