Citogenetics of Guazuma ulmifolia var. ulmifolia (Sterculiaceae)

Abstract

A surface spreading and air-drying method to obtain for the first time the somatic karyotype of a population of Guazuma ulmifolia var. ulmifolia was used. Chromosome diploid number of 2n = 16
from meristematic root cells was confirmed. Mitotic karyotype was 14m + 2st with a slight asymmetry (T.F.% = 42.19). Total haploid chromosome length was 11.65 µm with a chromosomal interval of 1.11 - 2.05 µm. Nucleolar organizers were associated to secondary constrictions on the pair 3 (m), and a polymorphism was observed on the pair 8 (st). These two features could be employed as cytogenetic markers in future studies for other species and varieties of the genus.