Chromosome Structure in Tradescantiae. VII. Further Observations on the Direction of Coiling in Tradescantia reflexa Raf

Abstract

In an x-rayed strain of T. reflexa showing rings or chains of two, four and six chromosomes, respectively, serial observations indicate that the direction of coiling tends to fall into certain patterns within a given half-anther. These patterns do not necessarily belong to given chromosomes or parts of chromosomes but appear to belong to a given group of chromosomes. Random coiling is thus considered to be modified within an anther. Similarity of patterning between half-anthers is suggested, but over a long period and with a sufficient number of observations the various patterns between different anthers may form a random series.