KARYOTYPE OF THE KABULI-TYPE CHICKPEA (CICER-ARIETINUM L) BY IMAGE-ANALYSIS SYSTEM

Detailed information on karyotype of the kabuli-type chickpea (Cicer a rietinum L.) has been lacking; hence this study was undertaken to prod uce the standard karyotype of kabuli chickpea and to understand the va riation in karyotype within kabuli type. Mitotic analysis of four geno types differing in morpho-agronomic traits and geographic origin were carried out. Little difference was observed among the four genotypes f or total genome length, chromosome length and complement formula. All carry a distinguishable satellite on the longest chromosome pair. Smal l variation in karyological parameters within kabuli type might be due to its narrow adaptation. The karyotype of the variety Sultano has be en chosen as the standard for kabuli-type chickpea on the base of its parameters being closest to the average of those genotypes that were i nvestigated.