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Artemisia L. is interesting in cytogenetic research due to having a variety of chromosome numbers and ploidy levels. In this research, the karyomorphological characteristics of nine accessions of French and Russian tarragon (A. dracunculus L.) collected from different locations in Iran were analyzed for the first time. The basic chromosome number was x = 9, with two ploidy levels of 4x (French accessions) and 10x (Russian accessions). The mean of chromosome length and the total haploid chromosome length of the French accessions ranged from 2.32 to 3.39 μm and 40.26 to 61.13 μm, respectively, while these values were 3.99 to 4.22 μm and 179.72 to 190.13 μm, respectively, for the Russian accessions. Chromosome types of French tarragons were determined as metacentric (dominant) and submetacentric, whereas they were metacentric (dominant), submetacentric, and subtelocentric in Russian tarragons. French accessions were classified as 4A, 3B, and 4B according to the Stebbins classification, while all the Russian accessions have a 3B type karyotype. Russian accessions present the most asymmetrical karyotype based on biplot analysis of asymmetry indices. Cluster analysis according to all karyotypic parameters revealed that the French and Russian accessions were placed in two separate groups. Principal components analysis showed that the first two components possessed 95.8% of the total variation. The PCA score plot generated from the first two principal components not only supported the clustering results but also distinguished the French accessions of Arak, Isfahan, and Tehran, which have more symmetrical karyotype, from the remaining French accessions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aneuploid somaclonal variants are frequently observed during tissue culture of caladium (Caladium × hortulanum Birdsey), a popular ornamental plant. Certain variants exhibit improved ornamental characteristics, rendering them valuable for future breeding, provided that they maintain genetic uniformity in subsequent vegetative cycles. This study investigated the genetic uniformity, tuber yield potential, and chilling-stress responses of two types of aneuploid caladium somaclonal variants (VT7 and VT9) produced previously in the second vegetative cycle. Morphological characterization revealed that all established plants displayed no observable alterations in leaf coloration, except for two out of 30 (6.67%) VT7 and one out of 14 (7.14%) VT9. Furthermore, VT7 and VT9 displayed relatively consistent distributions of the measured morphological parameters, suggesting a high degree of morphological uniformity of these variants. Further analysis revealed that all assessed plants from VT7 and VT9 exhibited no alteration in relative nuclear DNA content, chromosome number, and simple sequence repeat (SSR) banding patterns except the three newly observed variants. These results indicated relatively high genetic uniformity of the two aneuploid variants in the second vegetative cycle. Compared with the wild caladium, the two aneuploids yielded more tubers with a reduction in average fresh weight. Additionally, both VT7 and VT9 showed improved chilling tolerance relative to wild caladium, as evidenced by enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, peroxidase (POD) activity, proline (Pro) content, and maximum photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm), along with reduced relative electrical conductivity (REC) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content during chilling stress. Consequently, aneuploid somaclonal variants represent valuable resources for genetic studies and cultivar improvement in caladium.Key message: The tuber progeny of aneuploid caladium somaclonal variants exhibited relatively high genetic uniformity, an increased number of tubers, and enhanced chilling tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opuntia ficus-indica, commonly known as prickly-pear, tuna, or nopal, is a cactus species of economic significance. It is widely cultivated for its fruits and cladodes, used as both fodder and human food. The species would have been domesticated in pre-Hispanic Mexico. In Argentina, two forms are present: the horticultural (spineless, f. ficus-indica) and the wild (spiny, f. amyclaea) forms. The presence/absence of spines would be a genetically controlled trait; thus, the species would have been introduced more than once in our country. A molecular and cytogenetic study was conducted to characterize the genetic variability, infer the source of introduction in Argentina, and explore the relationship between morphotypes. Most spine samples had the Q16-H1 haplotype, except for samples from Mexico, Santiago del Estero, and Catamarca. Samples from Salta, Santiago del Estero, and Catamarca showed morphological differences from O. ficus-indica. The cytological analysis revealed that most populations are octoploid, except for one diploid population from Mexico. Although the number of individuals from Mexico was low, haplotype diversity and number of diploid individuals was higher in that country than in Argentina. The occurrence of a single haplotype of the species associated with both spineless and spiny forms in Argentina reveals a single introduction event and its subsequent dispersion mainly through asexual reproduction. The haplotype diversity found in Argentina is probably due to hybrids between O. ficus-indica and Opuntia species native to this country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) is one of important commodities in Indonesia and has a high demand. Increasing shallot production can be done by improving the size of bulb through polyploidy induction by mutagen. The application of colchicine can double the number of chromosome, so that it is expected to produce polyploid plants with a larger size. TSS is botanical seed that has several advantages compared to bulbs, such as a longer storage period, lower seed supply costs, pest and disease free. This study aims to determine the effective combination of colchicine concentration and immersion time to produce tetraploid plant. This study used completely randomized design (CRD), consisted of 8 treatment combinations of colchicine concentration (0%, 0,25%, 0,50%, 0,75%) and immersion time (24 jam dan 48 jam) with 3 replications. The observation variables were germination, percentage of mortality, LC50, plantlet growth (plantlet height, number of leaves, number of roots, and root length), and cytology (stomatal density and number of chromosomes). The result showed that the treatment combination of colchicine concentration and immersion time has a significant effect on all observed variables, except the number of leaves and number of roots. Increasing the colchicine concentration and immersion time decreased the germination and increased the percentage of mortality. K3P1 (0.75%, 24 hours) population showed the best plantlet height and root length. All Combinations of colchicine concentration and immersion time did not produce tetraploid plant, but produce pentaploid plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Centaurea sect. Acrocentron (Asteraceae) was found on the Ozren mountain in southwestern Serbia near Sjenica and named as Centaurea ozrenii. It inhabits xerophilous and steppe-like habitats, on ultramafic geological substrate. Morphologically, it is close to C. calocephala, C. chrysolepis, C. orientalis, C. murbeckii, C. kotschyana and the recently described C. zlatiborensis. The most distinctive morphological features of the new species are undivided to simply pinnatisect (non lyrate) subglabrous leaves, with linear segments, upper leaves with an aristate apex and cream coloured to pale yellow florets of which the outer are much longer than the inner ones. The phyllaries are intermediate in relation to C. calocephala and C. kotschyana. The chromosome number of the new species is 2n = 22. Thorough field investigations confirmed the presence of C. ozrenii only at this localized site on Mt. Ozren with a population of 13 clusters of individuals with 23–52 flowering stems in an area of about 50 m 2 . Applying the IUCN Red List categories and criteria to the available data categorised C. ozrenii as a Critically Endangered (CR) species.

The sclerotia of Wolfiporia hoelen are one of the most important traditional Chinese medicines and foods commonly used in China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries. To provide a high-quality reference genome and deepen our understanding of the genome of W. hoelen to elucidate various biological phenomena. In this study, we assembled three genomes of W. hoelen using a combination of Nanopore and Illumina sequencing strategies. The fifteen-chromosome genome L7 of W. hoelen was assembled with two-sided telomere and rDNA sequences for the first time. The chromosome count was subsequently confirmed through collinearity analysis, correcting the previous belief that W. hoelen had only fourteen chromosomes. Moreover, the aneuploid genome was discovered in W. hoelen for the first time through sequencing depth analysis of different chromosomes, and only some strains of W. hoelen exhibit aneuploid genomes. According to the genome analysis of homokaryotic offspring and protoplast-isolated strains, a potential variation in chromosome allocation patterns was revealed. Moreover, the gene function enrichment analysis of genes on reduplicated chromosomes demonstrated that aneuploidy in the genome may be the result of environmental adaptation for W. hoelen. The discovery of an aneuploid genome also provides new ideas for genetic improvement of W. hoelen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of genome assemblies has rapidly increased in recent history, with NCBI databases reaching over 41,000 eukaryotic genome assemblies across about 2,300 species. Increases in read length and improvements in assembly algorithms have led to increased contiguity and larger genome assemblies. While this number of assemblies is impressive, only about a third of these assemblies have corresponding genome size estimations for their respective species on publicly available databases. In this paper, genome assemblies are assessed regarding their total size compared to their respective publicly available genome size estimations. These deviations in size are assessed related to genome size, kingdom, sequencing platform, and standard assembly metrics, such as N50 and BUSCO values. A large proportion of assemblies deviate from their estimated genome size by more than 10%, with increasing deviations in size with increased genome size, suggesting nonprotein coding and structural DNA may be to blame. Modest differences in performance of sequencing platforms are noted as well. While standard metrics of genome assessment are more likely to indicate an assembly approaching the estimated genome size, much of the variation in this deviation in size is not explained with these raw metrics. A new, proportional N50 metric is proposed, in which N50 values are made relative to the average chromosome size of each species. This new metric has a stronger relationship with complete genome assemblies and, due to its proportional nature, allows for a more direct comparison across assemblies for genomes with variation in sizes and architectures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time, nuclear genome size and ploidy of five Nitraria species from 49 populations were examined by flow cytometry. All populations were also analyzed for the chromosome number. We identified significant differences in the 2C nuclear DNA content among the analyzed species, and this parameter correlated with their ploidy. Diploid (2n = 2x = 24) species N. sibirica and N. tangutorum were found to have smaller genome size (1.24–1.34 and 1.57–1.65 pg) as compared to tetraploid (2n = 4x = 48) species N. komarovii (2.23–2.32 pg), N. pamirica (3.10–3.30 pg), and N. schoberi (2.93–3.39 pg). Intra-population genome size variation was found in examined species, varying from 1.01 to 1.08-fold. Nitraria sibirica has lower inter-population variation of the 2C (1.08-fold) as compared to N. schoberi (1.16-fold). All the Nitraria species are mixoploids. It turned out that an increase in the equatorial axis of Nitraria pollen is associated with an increase in 2C and 1Cx. An exception is N. komarovii, with its intermediate 2C DNA content and the smallest pollen grains. In general, our data confirm Bobrov's previous views on the system of the genus Nitraria, which distinguished ser. Sibiricae and ser. Schoberianae in sect. Nitraria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying stages of a species invasion in a new habitat (i.e., colonization, establishment, and landscape spread) and their primary determinants in biological invasion warrants attention, as it provides vital insights for preventing non-native species from becoming pervasive invaders. However, delineating invasion stages and their associated factors can pose significant challenges due to the ambiguous distinctions between these stages. Alliaria petiolata, one of the most noxious weeds in woodland habitats, has recently been introduced to Korea and observed in a few distant locations. Although the plant's spread has been relatively slow thus far, rapid spread is highly likely in the future, given the high invasive potential reported elsewhere. We indirectly diagnose the current status of A. petiolata invasion in Korea through the assessment of genetic diversity and phylogenetic inferences using genome-wide molecular markers and cytological data. We analyzed 86 individual samples collected from two native and six introduced populations, employing 1,172 SNPs. Our analysis estimated within- and among-population genetic diversity and included two clustering analyses. Furthermore, we investigated potential gene flow and reticulation events among the sampled populations. Our data unraveled that Korean garlic mustard exhibits a hexaploid ploidy level with two distinct chromosome numbers, 2n = 36 and 42. The extent of genetic diversity measured in Korean populations was comparable to that of native populations. Using genome-wide SNP data, we identified three distinct clusters with minor gene flow, while failing to detect indications of reticulation among Korean populations. Based on the multifaceted analyses, our study provides valuable insights into the colonization process and stressed the importance of closely monitoring A. petiolata populations in Korea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Somaclonal variants with valuable agronomic traits play a crucial role in crop breeding, provided that they are stably passed down in subsequent generations. Although numerous somaclonal variants have been identified and studied among in vitro regenerated plants in the foliage plant caladium (Caladium × hortulanum Birdsey), no research has been carried out to evaluate their genetic stability in subsequent generations. This study aimed to evaluate the genetic stability of three types of diploid caladium somaclonal variants, previously derived from in vitro callus cultures, over three successive tuber-propagated generations. The analysis of quantitative morphological characteristics revealed a greater degree of variation among the established plants in the first generation (G1) compared to the second (G2) and third generations (G3). Seven plants exhibiting distinct leaf coloration changes were identified in the G1 generation and were found to be stably passed down to the subsequent G2 and G3 generations. These findings indicate a wide range of morphological variation in the G1 generation, followed by relative stability in subsequent generations. A comprehensive cytological and molecular analysis revealed that five of the seven newly observed variants displayed notable differences in relative nuclear DNA content, chromosome number, or SSR (simple sequence repeat) banding patterns compared to their corresponding normal counterparts. The findings of this study will be instrumental in developing new cultivars with distinctive plant morphology through the exploitation of somaclonal variation in caladium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micranthes nelsoniana possesses multiple different variants and numerous chromosomes. Based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and chloroplast (cp)DNA sequences, the phylogeography of M. nelsoniana and its relatives in Northeast Asia was investigated, with extensive sampling around the Kuril Islands. The Arctic–Asian continent and a clade of marginal islands were the two main groupings that comprised the ITS phylogenetic tree. The island clade was separated into five well-supported clades: Kamchatka and Hokkaido highlands, Kuril–Aleutian Islands, southern Kuril Islands, Japanese archipelago, and Primorye region. Micranthes fusca was found in Japan and in the southern Kuril Islands. It is a separate species that created several types of hybrids between M. nelsoniana in the centre of the Kuril Islands based on a comparison of the ITS and cpDNA networks. Micranthes nelsoniana and M. ohwii appear to have hybridized in the northern Kuril Islands. Cytological investigation on the local species of M. nelsoniana showed that the chromosomal numbers are: 2 n  = 24, 26, 28, 30, 50, and 80. Among them, two usual numbers to this area, 2 n  = 24 and 50, appear to encourage interspecific gene exchange. The genomes of Hokkaido plants with high chromosome counts were cloned, revealing that they contained genes of both continental and marginal origins. This study revealed the crucial role of marginal islands along Northeast Asia in the genetic diversity of M. nelsoniana and related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cytological study was carried out on four Zingiber species from Thailand, namely, Z. chrysostachys, Z. isanense, Z. junceum, and Z. niveum, which are edible and beautiful ornamental plants. They all have somatic chromosomal numbers of 2n = 22. This research contributes to karyological knowledge regarding this species. The somatic chromosomal counts of Z. niveum and Z. isanense are reported for the first time, as are the NFs of all species, which were all discovered to be 44. All four edible and ornamental species had their karyotypes: 16m + 6sm for Z. chrysostachys, 4m + 18sm for Z. isanense, 12m + 10sm for Z. junceum, and 14m + 4sm + 4st for Z. niveum. The dominant characteristics of these four Zingiber species are as follows: Z. chrysostachys has yellow bracts, pale yellow flowers, and a red labellum with white dots; Z. isanensis has red-brown bracts, white flowers, and a white labellum; Z. junceum has green bracts, yellow flowers, and a yellow labellum; and Z. niveum has white bracts, yellow flowers, and a yellow labellum. Additionally, principal component analysis (PCA) of the karyotype formula was used to divide the four Zingiber species into two groups via various points using the chromosome indexes (CIs): Z. niveum (D) with Z. chrysostachys (A), and Z. junceum (C) with Z. isanensis (B). This finding implies that, while being in the same stage, the CIs of these four Zingiber species can be used to distinguish them, revealing their resemblance at unique stages and close relationship. Accordingly, the chromosomal structure, karyotype formulae, and CIs can be used to distinguish these four edibles and ornamental Zingiber species from Thailand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The cytogeography of the polyploid complex Bassia prostrata s. l. was studied by flow cytometry (FCM) on material from 39 populations in Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Russia. On the basis of the determination of the DNA content in the nuclei (2C-value), three cytotypes were identified: diploid (2n = 18), tetraploid (2n = 36), and hexaploid (2n = 54). Verification of the ploidy level determined by DNA content was carried out by parallel direct counting of the chromosome number. Most of the studied populations are represented by a single cytotype; in three populations, mixed ploidy is noted, when tetraploids or hexaploids are found along with diploids. The genetic isolation of chloroplast DNA of diploid and polyploid cytotypes was revealed. Presumable variants of the evolutionary relationship of cytotypes are shown on the basis of cpDNA restriction spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indian Squill (Drimia indica) belonging to the family Asparagaceae is a highly medicinal herb with several therapeutic properties. The cytotaxonomic complexity of the species Drimia makes it intriguing to investigate ploidy variation in ecotype level and its significance in relation to genome size variation. Detailed karyotype analysis and 2C DNA contents were reported in twelve ecotypes of D. indica from different geographical locations of the state Odisha, India. The diploid somatic chromosome 2n = 2x = 20 was recorded in four ecotypes such as 'Kendrapada', 'Tikarpada', 'Daspalla', and 'Odagaon, while tetraploid having 2n = 4x = 40 was newly reported in ecotype from 'Nuagaon'. Aneuploid chromosome number 2n = 26 was obtained in ecotypes 'Similipal' and 'Satkosia' and 2n = 32 was newly reported in ecotypes 'Bitarkanika' and 'Narasinghpur'. The ecotypes 'Nayagarh' and 'Nilagiri' were recorded with 2n = 16 and 2n = 22 respectively. The 2C DNA content analysis showed 2.19-fold increase which correlates with ploidy variation in ecotype level. The 2C DNA values were found highest of 36.26 pg (2n = 40) in ecotype 'Nuagaon' and lowest at 16.54 pg (2n = 16) in ecotype 'Nayagarh' that corresponds with ploidy and genome size. The asymmetry in the karyotypes showed non-significant clusters among the ecotypes except ecotypes 'Odagaon' and 'Bhitarkanika' which are most asymmetric having advanced karyotypic features as compared to the ecotypes 'Simlipal', 'Karanjia' and 'Nayagarh' having symmetric karyotypes. The chromosome characteristics along with genome size analysis of D. indica can be very useful in establishing genome-specific cytotypes which can be used for breeding programme for crop improvement. Furthermore, enhancement of therapeutic phyto-constituents, and cyto-taxonomic identification from adulterant and confirmation of alloploidy or autoploidy through genomic in situ hybridization could unravel the potential of this plants in relation to secondary metabolite production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromosome numbers and reproductive mode for nine species of Tectarioid ferns of Indonesia are reported here to add new cytological accounts for the genus Tectaria (Tectariaceae) of the Malesian region. This study aimed to (1) observe the somatic chromosome number of some species of Tectaria in the Malesian region; and (2) determine the reproduction types of the observed species by counting the spore number per sporangium. The results verified the formerly reported basic chromosome numbers x = 40 for the genus Tectaria. The present study has revealed the presence of 5 species of sexual diploids, one species of sterile triploid, and two species of sexual tetraploids. This study also reported new records of chromosome numbers for Tectariod ferns of the Malesian region from sexual diploid (2n = 80) of T. aurita (Sw.) S.Chandra, T. melanocaulos (Blume) Copel., T. palmata (Mett.) Copel., and T. zollingeri (Kurz.) Holttum, and sterile triploid (2n = 120) T. menyanthidis (C.Presl) Copel. The chromosome numbers of sexual diploid (2n = 80) T. angulata (Willd.) Copel. and tetraploid (2n = 160) T. barberi (Hook.) Copel., sexual tetraploid (2n = 160) T. polymorpha (Wall. ex Hook.) Copel., sexual diploid (2n = 80) and sexual tetraploid (2n = 160) T. semipinnata (Roxb.) C.V.Morton are reported for the first time collected from Central Kalimantan, Java and Sumatra, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Linnaeoideae subfamily was created in Caprifoliaceae to represent the close relationship among the monophyletic genera Abelia, Diabelia, Dipelta, Kolkwitzia, Linnaea, and Vesalea. These closely related genera could possibly be a new source of ornamental traits for Abelia, an economically important genus of woody ornamental shrubs. Breeding among these genera could be challenging as only a few genera and species have a reported total DNA content, ploidy level, and chromosome number. The objective of this research was to fill that gap in the literature. We determined the total DNA content and DNA ploidy levels and estimated chromosome numbers of the species Abelia chinensis (two genotypes), Abelia macrotera var. engleriana, Abelia ×grandiflora, Abelia schumanii, Diabelia serrata, Vesalea floribunda, Zabelia tyaihyonii var. mosanensis, and the Abelia cultivars Edward Goucher, Francis Mason, Lavender Mist, Raspberry Profusion, and Rosy Charm® by flow cytometry. Raphanus sativus ‘Saxa’ was used as an internal standard for holoploid 2C total genome size estimation. For DNA ploidy and chromosome number, A. ×grandiflora (2n = 2x = 32) and Z. tyaihyonii var. mosanensis (2n = 36) were used as internal standards. We also measured the pollen size and stomata length of the species A. chinensis (two genotypes), A. macrotera var. engleriana, V. floribunda, A. ×grandiflora, A. schumanii, and D. serrata, and the Abelia cultivars Francis Mason and Raspberry Profusion. All genotypes have a 2C holoploid total DNA content between 0.87 and 0.95 pg DNA (∼850–930 Mb), except for V. floribunda and Z. tyaihyonii var. mosanensis, which have 1.94 and 1.91 pg DNA, respectively (∼1880 Mb). All genotypes are diploid with 2n = 2x = 32, except for V. floribunda and Z. tyaihyonii var. mosanensis, which have 36 chromosomes (2n = ?x = 36). We observed significant variability in stomata sizes and pollen diameter independent of and not correlated with genome size or chromosome number. A. ×grandiflora has a high percentage of dead pollen (∼30%), as does V. floribunda (43%). This high percentage of dead pollen in the natural species V. floribunda could be the result of aneuploidy. This is the first report of total DNA content in A. chinensis, D. serrata, and Z. tyaihyonii var. mosanensis; total DNA content and estimated chromosome number in V. floribunda; total DNA content and DNA ploidy levels in A. ×grandiflora, A. macrotera var. engleriana, and A. schumanii; and total DNA content, estimated chromosome number, and DNA ploidy levels in the Abelia cultivars Edward Goucher, Francis Mason, Lavender Mist, Raspberry Profusion, and Rosy Charm®.

Geranium macrorrhizum L. is a herbaceous species native to southern Europe and was introduced in central Europe and North America. It is also widely distributed in Italy. In this study, molecular and cytogenetic analyses were carried out on 22 wild plants, collected in central and southern Italy, compared with five cultivated plants, with the main purpose to identify those living near the Marmore waterfalls in central Italy, recently described as the new species Geranium lucarinii. Four barcoding markers (rbcL, matK, trnH-psbA intergenic spacer and internal transcribed spacer region) were sequenced and their variability among the plants was evaluated. Chromosome numbers were determined and 45S rDNA was physically mapped by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Moreover, genomic affinity between wild and cultivated plants was evaluated by genomic in situ hybridization. The results of this study supported that all the plants belong to G. macrorrhizum, including the Marmore population. Barcoding analyses showed a close similarity among the wild plants, and a differentiation, although not significant, between the wild plants on one hand and the cultivated plants on the other. Integrated studies focusing on morphological, genetic and ecological characterization of a larger number of wild populations would allow us to know the extent of the variability within the species.

Caspian poplar (Populus caspica Bornm.) is distributed exclusively in the Hyrcanian forests. Hyrcanian forests are the final remnants of Tertiary temperate deciduous forests in Western Eurasia and worldwide. This species plays a significant ecological role in the protection of the natural environment in Hyrcanian forests. In this research, chromosome number and karyotype details of 11 populations of the species were investigated for the first time, using fresh root cuttings collected from mature trees in different parts of the forest, located in the northern parts of Iran. Pre-treatment, fixation, hydrolyzing, and staining were conducted by α-bromonaphthalene, carnoy’s solution, 1N HCl, and hematoxylin agent, respectively. Chromosomal data were analyzed according to a nested model based on a completely randomized design. Chromosome numbers of all of the populations were the same as 2n = 38, which mostly were medium region and sub-metacentric types. Significant differences were observed between the provinces and populations, based on chromosome length grand means, arm ratios and centromere indices. The results demonstrated that structural rearrangement has occurred within the studied populations and indicated an active evolutionary process within and between populations of the species due to natural hybridization. Also, these results showed that artificial inter-specific hybridization between the P. caspica and its relative species can be employed to broaden the ecological zone of the species.

The nature of pollen grains and karyotype morphology are important bases in the task of clarifying relationships and they are considered to be of significant value in observing the effects of environmental and climatic factors on plants. The investigations of the palynological, as well as karyological and physiological data regarding to M. coralloides, as one of the rarest species of the Armenian flora, were conducted for the first time using light and scanning electronic microscopy. In Armenia the only remaining population of this species is currently located in the Ararat valley salt marshes to the south-east of Ararat town. In the Red Book of Plants of the Republic of Armenia the species M. coralloides is presented in the category EN (Endangered species). Description of the pollen grain and karyotype of the Armenian population of M. coralloides subsp. anatolicum collected from the vicinity of Ararat town are provided in the article. The study of the water regime, transpiration intensity and photosynthesis, as well as plastid pigments were also conducted. Comparative analysis between Armenian and Iranian specimens of the subspecies M. coralloides subsp. anatolicum showed some discrepancies in pollen features, as well as karyological data, which indicate some specificity of the population growing on the territory of Armenia. The diversity and intersections in pollen traits can be attributed to either natural variability within a population (plasticity), or they may be influenced by genetic differences among populations and closely related species. The physiological data highlights specialized adaptations of M. coralloides subsp. anatolicum for managing water resources, reducing transpiration, and performing photosynthesis in the high salinity conditions of the Ararat Plain. This showcases the plant's remarkable resilience and adaptability to its specific ecological niche, emphasizing the interplay between environment and biology.

The sclerotia of Wolfiporia hoelen are one of the most important traditional Chinese medicines and foods commonly used in China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries. To provide a high-quality reference genome and deepen our understanding of the genome of W. hoelen to elucidate various biological phenomena. In this study, we assembled three genomes of W. hoelen using a combination of Nanopore and Illumina sequencing strategies. The fifteen-chromosome genome L7 of W. hoelen was assembled with two-sided telomere and rDNA sequences for the first time. The chromosome count was subsequently confirmed through collinearity analysis, correcting the previous belief that W. hoelen had only fourteen chromosomes. Moreover, the aneuploid genome was discovered in W. hoelen for the first time through sequencing depth analysis of different chromosomes, and only some strains of W. hoelen exhibit aneuploid genomes. According to the genome analysis of homokaryotic offspring and protoplast-isolated strains, a potential variation in chromosome allocation patterns was revealed. Moreover, the gene function enrichment analysis of genes on reduplicated chromosomes demonstrated that aneuploidy in the genome may be the result of environmental adaptation for W. hoelen. The discovery of an aneuploid genome also provides new ideas for genetic improvement of W. hoelen.

Abstract Background Cymbidium aloifolium is a popular ornamental flower in Thailand with both economic and medical values. Polyploid induction techniques are used to improve plant quality. This study identified polyploidy levels of C. aloifolium induction by colchicine. Protocorms of C. aloifolium were treated on solid New Dogashima Medium (NDM) with various concentrations of colchicine (0, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04 and 0.05% w/v) for 2, 4 and 8 weeks. Results Colchicine effectively induced plant polyploidy. Tetraploid plants were found after treatment with 0.03% and 0.04% colchicine for 8 weeks, while at increased concentration and duration, survival, response and growth performance decreased. Tetraploid plants showed the lowest growth performance but highest size of stomatal and epidermal cells. Growth performance and leaf surface anatomy data were analyzed by Pearson’s correlation and PCA. Results showed that stomatal and epidermal cell sizes had strongly negative correlations with other variables, while HCA revealed that stomatal and epidermal cell sizes of tetraploid plantlets were larger but stomatal and epidermal cell densities decreased when compared with the diploids. Conclusion Colchicine at suitable concentrations and duration produced polyploid plants with alteration of morphological and anatomical traits. This study provides potential information to support orchid quality production as ornamental plants and a source of pharmaceutical raw materials.

The present study reports the chromosome number, meiotic behavior and its relation with pollen fertility and seed set of Arnebia euchroma (Royle ex Benth.) I.M.Johnst. The species shows a chromosome count of 2n = 2x = 14. The meiotic abnormalities such as chromatin stickiness, cytomixis, laggard formation, chromosomal bridges, were also observed in the Pollen Mother Cells (PMCs) of the target plant species. The linear model of regression showed a significant reduction of seed set with increasing meiotic abnormality and correlation analysis highlighted positive relationship between pollen viability and seed set. Meiotic abnormalities within the species hinder its reproductive process, causing a decline in reproductive efficiency. This study highlights the importance of addressing these intrinsic factors in future conservation programs to prevent a decline in the species population in nature.

The nature of pollen grains and karyotype morphology are important bases in the task of clarifying relationships and they are considered to be of significant value in observing the effects of environmental and climatic factors on plants. The investigations of the palynological, as well as karyological and physiological data regarding to M. coralloides, as one of the rarest species of the Armenian flora, were conducted for the first time using light and scanning electronic microscopy. In Armenia the only remaining population of this species is currently located in the Ararat valley salt marshes to the south-east of Ararat town. In the Red Book of Plants of the Republic of Armenia the species M. coralloides is presented in the category EN (Endangered species). Description of the pollen grain and karyotype of the Armenian population of M. coralloides subsp. anatolicum collected from the vicinity of Ararat town are provided in the article. The study of the water regime, transpiration intensity and photosynthesis, as well as plastid pigments were also conducted. Comparative analysis between Armenian and Iranian specimens of the subspecies M. coralloides subsp. anatolicum showed some discrepancies in pollen features, as well as karyological data, which indicate some specificity of the population growing on the territory of Armenia. The diversity and intersections in pollen traits can be attributed to either natural variability within a population (plasticity), or they may be influenced by genetic differences among populations and closely related species. The physiological data highlights specialized adaptations of M. coralloides subsp. anatolicum for managing water resources, reducing transpiration, and performing photosynthesis in the high salinity conditions of the Ararat Plain. This showcases the plant's remarkable resilience and adaptability to its specific ecological niche, emphasizing the interplay between environment and biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gagea bohemica s.l. is a morphologically and karyologically highly variable group with many morphologically similar “narrow” taxa currently considered as a single variable species. It is predominantly distributed in Mediterranean and warmer parts of temperate belt of Europe. The large-scale data on its cytogeography and population cytotype structure which could provide a basis for taxonomy are lacking, only scattered data on ploidy have been published from various parts of its range. In this study, we sampled 106 populations in broader Central Europe, the northeastern Balkan Peninsula and the northwestern Black Sea coast in order to analyze their ploidy level, genome size and pollen stainability. Two cytotypes, i.e., tetraploid (2n = 48) and pentaploid (2n = 60), were found in the study area using chromosome counting and flow cytometry, both in pure and mixed-ploidy populations. Pure pentaploid populations are mainly distributed in Austria, Czechia, northwestern Hungary and Slovakia while tetraploid cytotype in pure and mixed-ploidy populations forming two lineages which are concentrated into two disjunct geographical areas: a western lineage in Germany and Switzerland and an eastern one in Bulgaria, southeastern Hungary, northern Greece, Romania, Serbia and Ukraine. The two lineages differ in their genome size regardless of their ploidy, indicating their independent origin. Analysis of pollen stainability using a modified Alexander stain revealed an unusual pattern with tetraploids having a lower pollen stainability (mean 44.29%) than pentaploids (mean 70.70%), but the western and eastern populations differed again from each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the key uses of flow cytometry is the estimation of nuclear DNA content and ploidy level, which has proven a reliable and effective approach in many studies. The primary goal of this research is to estimate the nuclear DNA content and ploidy level of the apple genetic resource collection maintained in the Fruit Research Institute's living Malus collection for the first time using flow cytometry (for autochthonous varieties). Fresh apple leaf tissues were used for the flow cytometry analysis. For each genotype, nuclear DNA analysis was performed on three individual plants. Propidium iodide (PI) is used as a fluorochrome. Common vetch (3.65 pg/2C) was used as an internal standard. The 2C nuclear DNA content ranged from 1.46 pg to 2.45 pg. The variation in nuclear DNA content within the collection was statistically significant. Apple genotypes were split into two groups, diploid and triploid, according to their nuclear DNA content. Based on these results, 16.47% of apple genotypes were triploid, while 83.53% were diploid. The 2C nuclear DNA content in triploid genotypes varied from 2.04 to 2.45 pg and in diploids from 1.46 to 1.69 pg. The average nuclear DNA content in diploids was 1.56 pg, whereas it was 2.29 pg in triploids. The results of the study will be useful to determine the best strategies in breeding programs, as ploidy is one of the most important characteristics to consider in selecting parents for breeding purposes in addition to their agronomic characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromosome number and genome ploidy are crucial basic information for systematic evolutionary biology and genetics. Hemiboea, a genus of Gesneriaceae, with about 44 species, is mainly distributed in southern China, which have important medicinal and ornamental values. It is difficult to obtain suitable root tips for the chromosome preparation because of their small twining roots and small chromosomes. So far, only the chromosome numbers from three species of Hemiboea have been reported, while the chromosome numbers and ploidy of most species are unknown. The relationship between the pattern of chromosome number evolution and species evolution is also unclear. In this study, in order to explore the optimal conditions for chromosome preparation and the relationship between chromosome numbers and species evolution of Hemiboea, firstly, the root tips of six species (including H. subcapitata, H. longgangensis, H. longzhouensis, H. subacaulis var. jiangxiensis, H. follicularis and H. yongfuensis), which were generated by the method of hydroponic rooting for cutting leaves based on the characteristics of leaf cuttage propagation of plants in Hemboea, were used for the chromosome preparation experiments. Then, the effects of different experimental conditions on chromosome preparation were assessed. Next, the conditions were optimized and the chromosome counting was performed. Finally, the evolutionary history of chromosome numbers in Hemiboea and the related genera including Anna and Loxostigma were traced based on the molecular phylogenetic relationships, and the evolutionary pattern of chromosome numbers and relationships with species evolution were studied. The results were as follows: (1) The optimal conditions for karyotype preparation of the plants in Hemiboea were sampling during 9:30-10:00, dissociating for 10 min, and dyeing for 15 min. (2) All the six species of Hemiboea were diploid and with 32 chromosome numbers (2n=2x=32). (3) Except for a few species in the genus, the chromosome numbers of most species might be 2n=2x=32, and the variation of chromosome numbers might be caused by aneuploidy, which had no obvious relationship with the species evolution. This study sheds light on chromosome preparation of Hemiboea and other groups with similar leaf regeneration characteristics, and provides implications for the classification and phylogeny of this group.

A cytological study was carried out on four Zingiber species from Thailand, namely, Z. chrysostachys, Z. isanense, Z. junceum, and Z. niveum, which are edible and beautiful ornamental plants. They all have somatic chromosomal numbers of 2n = 22. This research contributes to karyological knowledge regarding this species. The somatic chromosomal counts of Z. niveum and Z. isanense are reported for the first time, as are the NFs of all species, which were all discovered to be 44. All four edible and ornamental species had their karyotypes: 16m + 6sm for Z. chrysostachys, 4m + 18sm for Z. isanense, 12m + 10sm for Z. junceum, and 14m + 4sm + 4st for Z. niveum. The dominant characteristics of these four Zingiber species are as follows: Z. chrysostachys has yellow bracts, pale yellow flowers, and a red labellum with white dots; Z. isanensis has red-brown bracts, white flowers, and a white labellum; Z. junceum has green bracts, yellow flowers, and a yellow labellum; and Z. niveum has white bracts, yellow flowers, and a yellow labellum. Additionally, principal component analysis (PCA) of the karyotype formula was used to divide the four Zingiber species into two groups via various points using the chromosome indexes (CIs): Z. niveum (D) with Z. chrysostachys (A), and Z. junceum (C) with Z. isanensis (B). This finding implies that, while being in the same stage, the CIs of these four Zingiber species can be used to distinguish them, revealing their resemblance at unique stages and close relationship. Accordingly, the chromosomal structure, karyotype formulae, and CIs can be used to distinguish these four edibles and ornamental Zingiber species from Thailand.

With more than 250 species, the genus Alpinia Roxb. is the largest in the tribe Alpinieae, subfamily Alpinoideae, and family Zingiberaceae. A. macrostaminodia Chaveer. and Sudmoon, and A. latilabris Ridl, two rare species, were identified. These two unusual species' cytogenetics have never been documented. This study's objective was to examine the chromosomal counts, fundamental numbers, and karyotype structure of two endangered Alpinia species from Thailand. Thus, using the squash technique, two rare species, A. macrostaminodia and A. latilabris, were cytologically examined. Two rare species are known to have the somatic chromosomal counts and karyotypes 2n = 48 = 46 sm + 2 st (A. macrostaminodia) and 2n = 48 = 8m+18sm+22st (A. latilabris). Both rare species' NFs were discovered to be 96. Both rare species' ideograms were given. A. macrostaminodia and A. latilabris' somatic chromosomal counts, NFs, karyotype formulae, and ideograms were the first to be documented. The data of cytology, including NFs, karyotype formulas, karyotype structures, and ideograms in both rare Alpinia species, can be identified in each species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aspidistra daqingshanensis (Asparagaceae) is described and illustrated as a new species from Longzhou County, Guangxi, China. It is morphologically similar to Aspidistra fasciaria G.Z. Li but differs in its leaf blade wider to 4--8 cm, distal margin denticulate, perianth lobes broadly ovate, yellow, stigma white, slightly recurved at apex. A somatic chromosome count of 2n = 38 and a karyotype formula 2n =22m + 10sm + 6st were determined for A. daqingshanensis. The new species is currently only known from the type locality in southwest Guangxi, near the border with northern Vietnam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zuccagnia punctata Cav. (Fabaceae) is a medicinal aromatic shrub, a monotypic species with a wide distribution in Argentina. Two morphotypes were found in Valles Calchaquíes, one with yellow fruits (YF) and other with red-brown fruits (RBF). The color of fruits varies between individuals within a population, with some plants producing red-brown fruits and other yellow fruits. The cytogenetic differentiation was determined using root tips. Leaves and fruits were used to analyze chemical composition by HPLC-DAD and HPLC/MS/MS. The number of chromosome (2n = 24) was reported for the first time for the genus. The yellow fruits and red-brown fruits morphotypes showed different karyotypes. The compounds common to both morphotypes were identified in leaves and fruits as chalcones, compounds with biological activity and biomarkers used for quality control of Z. punctata products. Two chemotypes related to the color of the fruits, were detected. An anthocyanin, cyanidin 3-glucoside was found in red-brown fruits (4.75 mg.g-1 fruits) but not in yellow fruits. These is the first report on yellow fruits morphotype of Z. punctata and on presence of anthocyanins in Z. punctata red-brown fruits morphotype. This work contributes to the knowledge of Z. punctata, a native plant from Argentina with high economic potential to promote the regional economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, chromosomal data are presented for six species representing five genera within the Brassicaceae family including Odontarrhena lanigera (DC.) Španiel, Al-Shehbaz, D.A. German & Marhold (=Alyssum lanigerum DC.) 2n=16, Aubrieta parviflora Boiss. 2n=16, Matthiola flavida Boiss. 2n=12, (=Matthiola ovatifolia Bél.) M. tomentosa (Boiss.) Boiss. 2n=12, Sisymbrium erysimoides Des. 2n=14 and Sterigmostemum longistylum (Boiss.) Kuntze 2n=14. Two of the studied species (Matthiola flavida and Sterigmostemum longistylum) are reported for the first time, while the chromosomal data for the remaining species are consistent with previous findings. These species exhibit a basic chromosome number of x=6, 7, or 8. Karyotypic analyses were also conducted in the existing samples and idiogram was drawn for them. The shortest chromosomes belong to Odontarrhena lanigera (2n=16) and the longest chromosomes were observed in Matthiola flavida (2n=12) species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorochrome chromosome banding and fluorescent in situ hybridization were used to cytogenetically characterize the striking tropical Andean clade species of Capsicum. An adapted dendrogram of the Capsicum phylogeny is presented, showing taxonomic relationships between karyotypes of the Andean clade species, C. baccatum var. pendulum, C. flexuosum, and the sister group Lycianthes. To date, the Andean clade includes nine species: C. dimorphum, C. geminifolium, C. hookerianum, C. lanceolatum, C. longifolium, C. lycianthoides, C. piuranum, C. regale and C. rhomboideum, all displaying 2n = 26. This group is characterized by conspicuous cytogenetic characters that are very useful in the identification of their species and allow them to be distinguished from the other group of species with x = 13 from the Atlantic forest, and definitely from the clades with x = 12. The species of the Andean clade possess relatively short genomes, with one NOR per haploid complement. The distribution of the heterochromatin is mainly subterminal. A single locus of the 35S and 5S rDNA was found per haploid complement. The discovery of three pairs of 5S rDNA sites in C. regale was surprising. The chromosomal features of these highland clade species could be considered adaptive characters to their geographical distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise of research. Genome size has cascading effects at nuclear, cell, and whole-organism levels, with consequences in the biology of the species. Large genomes impose higher metabolic and energetic costs, which might be exceedingly limiting for species to thrive under stressing environments, such as island archipelagos. Methodology. We mined online databases to collate available data on chromosome numbers and genome sizes in the genus Artemisia , which colonized Macaronesia and Hawaii archipelagos. We applied phylogenetic-based modeling approaches to reconstruct the evolution of these two traits to estimate ancestral states as well as the main mechanisms of change. Pivotal results. On the basis of extant chromosome data, our analyses discard polyploidy as a likely mechanism for speciation in Macaronesia or Hawaii. However, contrasting genome size patterns are found. Hawaiian endemics account for the smallest genomes in Artemisia , while those of Macaronesian endemics fall well above the average size in the genus. Conclusions. The evidence gathered in Artemisia indicates that, rather than genome downsizing, the presence of small genomes most likely predated colonization of Hawaii, which could have been key for a long dispersal from an Asian ancestor. Such a pattern does not hold in Macaronesia, which is relatively closer to mainland compared with Hawaii, hence suggesting that geographical isolation might reduce the likelihood of a large-genomed taxon to successfully colonize remote island archipelagos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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We report the first chromosome-length genome assemblies for three species in the mammalian order Pholidota: the white-bellied, Chinese, and Sunda pangolins. Surprisingly, we observe extraordinary karyotypic plasticity within this order and, in female white-bellied pangolins, the largest number of chromosomes reported in a Laurasiatherian mammal: 2n = 114. We perform the first karyotype analysis of an African pangolin and report a Y-autosome fusion in white-bellied pangolins, resulting in 2n = 113 for males. We employ a novel strategy to confirm the fusion and identify the autosome involved by finding the pseudoautosomal region (PAR) in the female genome assembly and analyzing the 3D contact frequency between PAR sequences and the rest of the genome in male and female white-bellied pangolins. Analyses of genetic variability show that white-bellied pangolins have intermediate levels of genome-wide heterozygosity relative to Chinese and Sunda pangolins, consistent with two moderate declines of historical effective population size. Our results reveal a remarkable feature of pangolin genome biology and highlight the need for further studies of these unique and endangered mammals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PremiseCounting chromosomes is a fundamental botanical technique, yet it is often intimidating and increasingly sidestepped. Once mastered, the basic protocol can be applied to a broad range of taxa and research questions. It also reveals an aspect of the plant genome that is accessible with only the most basic of resources-access to a microscope with 1000× magnification is the most limiting factor.Methods and resultsHere we provide a detailed protocol for choosing, staining, and squashing angiosperm pollen mother cells. The protocol is supplemented by figures and two demonstration videos.ConclusionsThe protocol we provide will hopefully demystify and reinvigorate a powerful and once commonplace botanical technique that is available to researchers regardless of their location and resources.

Chromosome number and genome ploidy are crucial basic information for systematic evolutionary biology and genetics. Hemiboea, a genus of Gesneriaceae, with about 44 species, is mainly distributed in southern China, which have important medicinal and ornamental values. It is difficult to obtain suitable root tips for the chromosome preparation because of their small twining roots and small chromosomes. So far, only the chromosome numbers from three species of Hemiboea have been reported, while the chromosome numbers and ploidy of most species are unknown. The relationship between the pattern of chromosome number evolution and species evolution is also unclear. In this study, in order to explore the optimal conditions for chromosome preparation and the relationship between chromosome numbers and species evolution of Hemiboea, firstly, the root tips of six species (including H. subcapitata, H. longgangensis, H. longzhouensis, H. subacaulis var. jiangxiensis, H. follicularis and H. yongfuensis), which were generated by the method of hydroponic rooting for cutting leaves based on the characteristics of leaf cuttage propagation of plants in Hemboea, were used for the chromosome preparation experiments. Then, the effects of different experimental conditions on chromosome preparation were assessed. Next, the conditions were optimized and the chromosome counting was performed. Finally, the evolutionary history of chromosome numbers in Hemiboea and the related genera including Anna and Loxostigma were traced based on the molecular phylogenetic relationships, and the evolutionary pattern of chromosome numbers and relationships with species evolution were studied. The results were as follows: (1) The optimal conditions for karyotype preparation of the plants in Hemiboea were sampling during 9:30-10:00, dissociating for 10 min, and dyeing for 15 min. (2) All the six species of Hemiboea were diploid and with 32 chromosome numbers (2n=2x=32) . (3) Except for a few species in the genus, the chromosome numbers of most species might be 2n=2x=32, and the variation of chromosome numbers might be caused by aneuploidy, which had no obvious relationship with the species evolution. This study sheds light on chromosome preparation of Hemiboea and other groups with similar leaf regeneration characteristics, and provides implications for the classification and phylogeny of this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evolutionary changes in karyotype provide genetic support to organisms' differentiation and adaptation; however, the association between karyotype diversity and species diversification in flowering plants (angiosperms) remains to be fully elucidated. We sought evidence for this association within a phylogenetic framework using a dataset comprising > 413,000 worldwide chromosome counts of 66,000 angiosperms species. Karyotypic diversity (e.g. number of distinct chromosome numbers) explains species richness and diversification rates at both family and genus levels highlighting that chromosome evolution has probably played, at least, an important role in reinforcing speciation that was already initiated or completed by other geographical or ecological drivers. Thus, research programs investigating chromosome variation as a direct or indirect driver of diversification should be encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: Plant lineages differ markedly in species richness globally, regionally, and locally. Differences in whole‐genome characteristics (WGCs) such as monoploid chromosome number, genome size, and ploidy level may explain differences in global species richness through speciation or global extinction. However, it is unknown whether WGCs drive species richness within lineages also in a recent, postglacial regional flora or in local plant communities through local extinction or colonization and regional species turnover. Methods: We tested for relationships between WGCs and richness of angiosperm families across the Netherlands/Germany/Czechia as a region, and within 193,449 local vegetation plots. Results: Families that are species‐rich across the region have lower ploidy levels and small monoploid chromosomes numbers or both (interaction terms), but the relationships disappear after accounting for continental and local richness of families. Families that are species‐rich within occupied localities have small numbers of polyploidy and monoploid chromosome numbers or both, independent of their own regional richness and the local richness of all other locally co‐occurring species in the plots. Relationships between WGCs and family species‐richness persisted after accounting for niche characteristics and life histories. Conclusions: Families that have few chromosomes, either monoploid or holoploid, succeed in maintaining many species in local communities and across a continent and, as indirect consequence of both, across a region. We suggest evolutionary mechanisms to explain how small chromosome numbers and ploidy levels might decrease rates of local extinction and increase rates of colonization. The genome of a macroevolutionary lineage may ultimately control whether its species can ecologically coexist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of genetic identity, genetic relationships, ploidy level, and chromosome numbers can enhance the efficiency of ornamental plant breeding programs. In the present study, genome sizes, chromosome numbers, and genetic fingerprints were determined for a collection of 94 Ilex accessions, including 69 I. crenata. The genome size of the entire collection ranged from 1.50 ± 0.03 to 8.01 ± 0.18. Within the species of I. crenata, genome sizes varied (mean ± sd) between 1.98 ± 0.08 and 2.30 ± 0.04, with three outliers: 3.06 ± 0.04, 4.04 ± 0.09, and 4.19 ± 0.08. The chromosome counting results showed 2n = 40 for I. crenata accessions and confirmed the outliers as one triploid and two tetraploids. A high intra-specific genetic diversity in Ilex crenata was found, after genetic fingerprinting using genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS). The species I. crenata was separated into three clades, which coincided with intraspecific differences in genome sizes (mean ± sd) of 2.09 ± 0.006, 2.07 ± 0.05, and 2.19 ± 0.06 pg/2C per clade as mean values for the diploids. Applying a principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) to the genetic fingerprinting data of all species in the collection revealed a wide genetic variation, which has not yet been commercially exploited. These findings could form the basis for selectively breeding parents, in order to create more genetic diversity via intra- and interspecific crosses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lygaeoidea comprise about 4660 species in 790 genera and 16 families. Using standard chromosome staining and FISH with 18S rDNA and telomeric (TTAGG)n probes, we studied male karyotypes and meiosis in 10 species of Lygaeoidea belonging to eight genera of the families Blissidae, Cymidae, Heterogastridae, Lygaeidae, and Rhyparochromidae. Chromosome numbers were shown to range from 12 to 28, with 2n = 14 being predominant. All species have an XY system and all but one have a pair of m-chromosomes. The exception is Spilostethus saxatilis (Lygaeidae: Lygaeinae); in another species of Lygaeinae, Thunbergia floridulus, m-chromosomes were present, which represents the first finding for this subfamily. All species have an inverted sequence of sex chromosome divisions ("post-reduction"). The 18S rDNA loci were observed on one or both sex chromosomes in Kleidocerys resedae and Th. floridulus, respectively (Lygaeidae), while on an autosomal bivalent in all other species. The rDNA loci tended to be close to the end of the chromosome. Using (TTAGG)n—FISH, we were able to show for the first time that the Lygaeoidea lack the canonical "insect" telomere motif (TTAGG)n. We speculate that this ancestral motif is absent from the entire infraorder Pentatomomorpha being replaced by some other telomere repeat motif sequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autopolyploidization has driven the successful invasion of Solidago canadensis in East Asia. However, it was believed that only diploid S. canadensis invaded Europe, whereas polyploids never did. Here, molecular identification, ploidy level, and morphological traits of ten S. canadensis populations collected in Europe were compared with previously identified S. canadensis populations from other continents and S. altissima populations. Furthermore, the ploidy-driven geographical differentiation pattern of S. canadensis in different continents was investigated. All ten European populations were identified as S. canadensis with five diploid and five hexaploid populations. Significant differences in morphological traits existed among diploids and polyploids (tetraploids and hexaploids), rather than between polyploids from different introduced ranges and between S. altissima and polyploidy S. canadensis. The invasive hexaploids and diploids had few differences in latitudinal distributions in Europe, which was similar to the native range but different from a distinct climate-niche differentiation in Asia. This may be attributed to the bigger difference in climate between Asia and Europe and North America. The morphological and molecular evidences proved the invasion of polyploid S. canadensis in Europe and suggest that S. altissima may be merged into a complex of S. canadensis species. Our study may be concluded that geographical and ecological niche differentiation of an invasive plant driven by ploidy depends on the degree of difference in the environmental factors between the introduced and native range, which provides new insight into the invasive mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ipomoeapes-caprae (L.) (IPC) is a common species in tropical and subtropical coastal areas and one of the world's most widely distributed plants. It has attracted researchers for its outstanding biological, ecological and medicinal values. It has been reported that the genetic diversity of IPCs located on different continents is very low because of their frequent gene flow. During the long journey of evolution, every aspect of the plant morphologies has evolved to the best adaptivity to the environment, seeking their survival and progeny expansion. However, the fundamental genetic characteristics of IPC and how their seed adapted to the success of population expansion remain unknown. In this study, the fundamental genetic characteristics, including the genome size and the chromosome number of IPC, were investigated. The results showed that IPC's genome size is approximately 0.98-1.08 GB, and the chromosome number is 2n=30, providing the basic information for further genome analysis. In order to decipher the long-distance dispersal secret of this species, the fruit and seed developments, seed morphology, and seed germination were extensively investigated and described. The results showed an exquisite adaptive mechanism of IPC seeds to fulfil the population expansion via ocean currents. The large cavity inside the seeds and the dense tomenta on the surface provide the buoyancy force for the seeds to float on the seawater. The hard seed coats significantly obstructed the water absorption, thus preventing the seed from germination during the dispersal. Meanwhile, the fully developed embryos of IPC also have physiological dormancy. The physical and physiological characteristics of IPC seeds provide insight into the mechanism of their long-distance dispersal across the oceans. Moreover, based on morphological observation and semisection microscopy, the development pattern of IPC glander trichomes was described, and their physiological functions were also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main conclusion: The polyploidization of Hippeastrum papilio influences its primary and secondary metabolism including the biosynthesis of bioactive alkaloids. Hippeastrum papilio is an ornamental plant that has advantages in comparison to the currently used plants for the extraction of galanthamine, a natural compound used for the cognitive treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. In the present study, an autotetraploid line of H. papilio was induced for the first time, after treatment with 0.05% colchicine for 48 h. The chromosome number in diploids was found to be 2n = 2x = 22 and for autotetraploids 2n = 4x = 44. The flow cytometric analyses detected a DNA C-value of 14.88 ± 0.03 pg (1C) in diploids and 26.57 ± 0.12 pg in autotetraploids. The morphological, cytological, and phytochemical studies showed significant differences between diploids and autotetraploids. The length and width of stomata in autotetraploids were 22.47% and 17.94%, respectively, larger than those observed in the diploid leaves. The biomass of one-year-old autotetraploid H. papilio plants was reduced by 53.99% for plants’ fresh weight, 56.53% for leaves’ fresh weight, and 21.70% for bulb diameter. The GC–MS analysis of methanol extracts from one-year-old diploid and autotetraploid H. papilio plants revealed over 60 primary and secondary metabolites including alkaloids, phenolic acids, sterols, saccharides, and alcohols, among others. Principal component analysis of the metabolite profiles indicates a divergence of the metabolism between diploid and autotetraploid plants. The content of galanthamine and haemanthamine was found to be 49.73% and 80.10%, respectively, higher in the leaves of autotetraploids, compared to the diploid ones. The biosynthesis of the saccharides shows a tendency to be upregulated in tetraploid plants, while that of phenolic acids was downregulated. Polyploidization of H. papilio creates possibilities for further crop improvement aimed at high-galanthamine-producing genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is a Commentary on Halabi et al. (2023), 240: 918–927. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chile is located in the south-western region of South America along the Pacific Ocean and contributes to the worldwide flora with ca. 6,120 species of Bryophyta, Pteridophyta, Pinophyta, Gnetophyta, and Magnoliophyta (1.9% of worldwide total species), exhibiting high endemism across all plant divisions. Little is known about the genetic diversity of Chilean land plants worldwide, including their cytogenetic and molecular characteristics. In 2012 we published the first state-of-the-art review in Cytogenetics of Chilean Angiosperms. The article gathered 78 publications from 1924 to 2010 accounting for approximately 139 species (2.8% of total Chilean species). The aim of this paper was to review the advances in cytogenetic studies of Chilean land plants, reporting additional cytogenetic data for species of four botanical divisions until 2020. Cytogenetic data were searched in the CPCD (Chilean Plants Cytogenetic Database). In total, we found 180 publications from both Chilean and foreign researchers. To date, cytogenetic data have been reported for 499 Chilean land plant species (8.2% of total) belonging to 244 genera and 117 families. In this context, the 2001-2020 period has been among the most productive regarding publications, with 74 available reports that include 163 additional species. Based on chromosome numbers, angiosperms and bryophytes registered the greatest diversity with 55 and 29 different 2n, respectively; both divisions having the greatest number of studied species. Given the importance of increasing information on Chilean land plants, it is expected that more publications will contribute to the knowledge of their cytogenetic diversity in the near future.

Important changes in vegetation types occur along elevational gradients. The genus Gymnocalycium is endemic to southern South America, and its species are distributed along elevational gradients. In particular, Gymnocalycium quehlianum is a globular cactus endemic to the Sierras de Córdoba. Studying cytogenetic aspects and DNA content in populations throughout their distribution is key to understanding the species. DNA content and cytogenetic characteristics were analyzed in four populations of G. quehlianum (615, 744, 948 and 1257 masl). The genome size in the four populations varied between 3.55 and 4.30 pg. The populations were diploid (2n = 22). All populations showed the karyotype formula of 10 metacentrics (m) + 1 submetacentric (sm). The species presented symmetrical karyotypes and constitutive heterochromatin CMA+/DAPI- associated with nucleolar organizing regions, always found in the first pair of m chromosomes. The 18-5.8-26S rDNA locus is found in the terminal regions of the first pair of chromosomes m, and the 5S locus is adjacent to the 18-5.8-26S locus. A tendency for DNA content to decrease with increasing altitude was observed.