A cytogenetic method to obtain chromosomes for studies of banding and fine morphology of karyotypes in bivalve mollusks of the family Ostreidae

Abstract

The studies of banding patterns of chromosomes in bivalve mollusks of the family Ostreidae have not been developed satisfactorily due to the lack of a suitable method that enables the obtention of chromosomes in a proper condition. The production of chromosomal fields in cold by means of a modification to the dripping and air drying method from embryos and larvae obtained from in vitro fertilization, and the control of the spiralization degree of the chromosomes, are achieved by the application of colchicine pulses for periods of 30, 45 and 60 minutes. These chromosomes show a certain degree of synchronisation due to the use of oyster early embryos and larvae in which the cell division is very frequent. Separation of cells in division was achieved with a 50% acetic acid solution, at 37ºC. Chromosomes obtained in this manner can be stained successfully for the severa1 different bands willing to be studied.

Keywords

• n/a