GIEMSA C-BANDED KARYOTYPES IN CAPSICUM (SOLANACEAE)

Giemsa C-banding is applied for the first time in Capsicum, allowing p reliminary karyotype differentiation of six diploid species. Compariso n of interphase nuclei and heterochromatic C-bands reveals striking di fferences between taxa and contributes to their taxonomic grouping. Th erefore, C-banding appears to be a powerful tool for the cytogenetics and karyosystematics of the genus. Banding patterns are characterized by the omnipresence of centromeric bands and a variable number of smal ler to larger distal bands, with the addition of intercalary bands in some cases. Satellites are always C-positive. Relationships between sp ecies and possible trends of karyotype evolution are discussed, with s pecial reference to the origin of x = 13 from x = 12 and the increase of heterochromatin, regarded as advanced features.