Plant Cytogenetics: Basic Aspects

Contents: Preface. 1. Plant Cytogenetics. 2. Historical perspective on Plant Cytogenetics. 3. Structure of chromosome. 4. Special type of chromosome. 5. Cell division. 6. Variation in chromosome numbers. 7. Meiotic abnormalities. Bibliography. Index.

Plant cytogenetics is the branch of genetics that focuses on the study of plant chromosomes and their variations. It explores the structure, function and behavior of chromosomes within plant cells, examining how they influence traits and inheritance patterns. Techniques such as karyotyping, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), and molecular markers are commonly used to analyze plant chromosomes. Through plant cytogenetics, researchers can uncover valuable insights into plant evolution, breeding, and genomic stability, aiding in the development of improved crop varieties with desirable traits.

The new edition of plant cytogenetics delves into the historical background of cytogenetics before delving into the practical aspects. It starts by discussing how plant chromosomes are handled using both classical and modern techniques, providing insights into their structure and behavior. It offers a comprehensive overview of cell division processes relevant to chromosome studies. Additionally, the book provides a concise explanation of chromosome identification through karyotype analysis. Furthermore, it emphasizes the significance of aneuploidy in linking genes to specific chromosomes, highlighting its crucial role in understanding genetic associations. This holistic approach ensures a thorough understanding of cytogenetics, essential for both researchers and students in the field of plant genetics and breeding.