Meiotic chromosome behavior of Haworthia limifolia

Haworthia limifolia is a xerophytic plant belonging to the family Liliaceae and is indigenous to Africa. It is use extensively for its medicinal properties like antibacterial, antifungal properties and used for the treatment of sores, superficial burns, as a blood purifier and to promote pregnancy in women and cattles. In present investigation chromosomal behaviour of H. limifolia in meiosis was studied. In diplotene stage chiasmata was observed showing the possibilities of genetic recombination. Chromosome clumps were observed in diakinesis indicating sticky nature of chromosomes. Meiotic abnormalities like stickiness, precocious movement, formation of bridges and laggards were also reported in both meiosis I and II. A fairly high percentage of pollen sterility that is 73.41% was recorded resulting in failure of fruit formation. This plant could be designated as facultative apomict (Swanson, 1957) as the only means of reproduction found was asexual or vegetative.

Study of Mitotic Activity and Chromosomal Behaviour in Root Meristem of Allium cepa L. Treated with Magnesium Sulphate

The mitotic activity and chromosomal behaviour was observed in four different concentrations of magnesium sulphate at four different duration of treatment using Allium cepa as a biological system. Mito-inhibitory effect of the compound was observed in higher concentration. The compound was capable of producing various chromosomal abnormalities indicating the cytostatic and clastogenic properties of magnesium sulphate. Key words: Allium cepa, magnesium sulphate, mitotic index, phase indices.doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1947 ECOPRINT 15: 83-88, 2008