Accessory chromosomes in norwegian populations of Paris quadrifolia L.

Abstract

We report presence of accessory chromosomes in some populations of Paris quadrifolia L. In one population up to ten such chromosomes occurred in the PMC's. These chromosomes were also found occasionally in root tip cells, being condensed outside the nuclear membrane. The number of accessories varied both between meiotic and somatic cells.. Paris quadrifolia L. is a species well-known for its particular large chromosomes. The extensive structural differences of karyotypes between different populations in Norway might give interesting clues to the origin of accessories.