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The intergeneric homology of an atypical euchromosome in several closely related Acridinae (order orthoptera)
Author(s) -
Carlson J. Gordon
Publication year - 1936
Publication title -
journal of morphology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.652
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1097-4687
pISSN - 0362-2525
DOI - 10.1002/jmor.1050590107
Subject(s) - biology , synapsis , prophase , meiosis , spermatid , homologous chromosome , spermiogenesis , genetics , tetrad , zygote , chromatid , chromosome , evolutionary biology , gene , embryogenesis , sperm
An atypical euchromosome, characterized by the large size and deep stainability of its chromomeres during the meiotic prophase, occurs in representatives of seven genera of Acridinae, viz., Chorthippus curtipennis, Euchorthippus pulvinatus, Stenobothrus lineatus, Omocestus ventralis, Stauroderus biguttulus, Gomphocerus rufus, and Aeropedellus clavatus. This element, which is termed the ‘megameric chromosome,’ stains more deeply than the other euchromosomes also during interkinesis and early spermiogenesis. The megameric chromosomes of the individual exhibit striking similarity in the number, size, and arrangement of their chromomeres through successive stages of the meiotic prophase. All the evidence from cytological study indicates that these chromosomes are intergenerically homologous. This is chiefly significant in the support it gives to the theory of chromosome individuality. The heteromorphic megameric tetrad of one individual of S. biguttulus—unequal because of a deficiency—usually undergoes segregation in the second division. The megameric chromosomes display splits previous to synapsis. Pairing begins at their proximal ends and proceeds distally. All the euchromosomes of the spermatid nucleus show splits in preparation for the first cleavage division of the zygote.