The chromosomes of Metternichia principis (Solanaceae) and their significance in the systematic position of the genus

Abstract

The chromosome and karyotype of Metternichia principis are studied for the first time. This species has 2n=2x=26 and symmetrical karyotype composed of 10 metacentric pairs, 2 meta-submetacentric pairs, and one submetacentric pair; the first pairing bears secondary constrictions related to satellites on short arms. Results are compared with previus chromosome reports in the familly. The karyologycal data support the exclusion of Metternichia fromthe tribe Cestreae and the reestablishment of the monotypic tribe Metternichieae.