Cytogenetic studies in species of Commelina L. (Commelinaceae). I

Caryotypic analysis of Commelina erecta L. and Commelina diffusa Burm

Abstract

The karyotypes of two species of Commelina L. are described for the first time in Tucumán. Commelina diffusa Burm., 2n = 30, has an asymetrical karyotype composed of: 2 m pairs + 11 sm pairs + 2 st pairs of chromosomes. The 14 pairs of chromosomes bear microsatellites on the short arms. Commelina erecta L., 2n = 60, is a tetraploide species, which has 14 m pairs + 14 sm pairs + 2 st pairs of chromosomes. The 26 pairs of chromosomes has microsatellites on the short arms. The results of our study have been compared with previous report on this genus.