DIFFERENTIAL GIEMSA STAINING IN PLANTS .6. CENTROMERIC BANDING

Somatic metaphase chromosomes of Tulipa which were subjected to various hydrolyses with several times and temperatures displayed 2 distinctive types of C-banding when stained using the BSG (Barium hydroxide/Saline/Giemsa) chromsome banding technique. In addition to the 2 types of Giemsa bands, i.e., intercalary/terminal and centromeric, a unique transition from the former to the latter type of banding was observed. At the point of transition from intercalary/terminal to centromeric banding, both types were present at 1 time. The 2 types of Giemsa banding resulted from different HCl hydrolysis times and temperatures; centromeric bands being observed after either a prolonged hydrolysis at room temperature or an increase in the hydrolysis temperature to 60.degree. C. These results are discussed in relation to the mechanisms of chromosome banding.