Position and orientation in the metaphase equator of an interchange quadrivalent of Allium triquetrum

Abstract

SUMMARYThe position and orientation of an interchange quadrivalent in flattened, lateral views of metaphase I were studied in pollen-mother-cells of an interchange heterozygote of Allium triquetrum. The quadrivalent is most often located in marginal rather than central positions in the equator. Moreover, when positioned marginally the quadrivalent is more often than expected found in adjacent orientation, whilst when positioned centrally it is more often than expected found in alternate orientation. Consequently, the frequency of alternate (genetically balanced) orientation in the quadrivalent varies sharply according to whether data are obtained from more marginal or more central positions in the metaphase plate.