Cytogenetics studies in the genus Commelina (Commelinaceae) II.

Meiotic analysis in Commelina erecta L. y Commelina diffusa Burm.

Abstract

Meiotic behaviour was studied in chromosomes of Commelina erecta L. and Commelina diffusa Burm. The tetraploid C. erecta L., has a wide range of distribution, showed several types of chromosomal anormalities such as uniquale separations, formation of laggards, early separation, bivalents connexions, associations chromosome, and with a 82% pollen viability. C. diffusa Burm. is a diploid species, with a limited distribution area, regulate meiotic behaviour and with a 92% pollen viability. A comparison among chromosome number, anormalities, suggest a basic chromosome number x = 15 and polyploidy as one of the process involved in the evolution of this genus.