Comparative Cytogenetic Analysis of Three Stylommatophoran Slugs (Mollusca, Pulmonata)

system is still controversial because phylogeny and systematic relationships at the family level are poorly understood. Besides morphological studies, ribosomal RNA genes and the H3/H4 histone gene cluster (Ambruster et al., 2005; Wade et al., 2006) have also been used to resolve the relationships within this order. Recently, by comparison of primary sequence of mitochondrial and nuclear genes, Grande et al. (2004) resolved the Stylommatophora as the early split monophyletic sister group of all the other gastropod taxa. Available data on the cytogenetics of Stylommatophora are extremely poor (reviewed by Patterson, 1969, and Thiriot-Quievreux, 2003) and mostly concern the haploid (n) and/ o…

Organometallic complexes with biological molecules

Novel triorganotin(IV) complexes of two beta-lactamic antibiotics, 6-[D-(-)-beta-amino-p-hydroxyphenyl-acetamido]penicillin (=amoxicillin) and 6-[D-(-)-alpha-aminobenzyl]penicillin (=ampicillin), have been synthesized and investigated both in solid and solution states. The complexes corresponded to the general formula R(3)Sn(IV)antib*H(2)O (R=Me, n-Bu, Ph; antib=amox=amoxicillinate or amp=ampicillinate). Structural investigations about configuration in the solid state have been carried out by interpreting experimental IR and 119Sn Mossbauer data. In particular, IR results suggested polymeric structures both for R(3)Sn(IV)amox.H(2)O and R(3)Sn(IV)amp*H(2)O. Moreover, both antibiotics appear …

Chromosome analysis of Bothus podas (Pisces, Pleuronectiformes) from the Mediterranean Sea

A modal diploid number 2n=38 has been determined in both sexes of the pleuronectiform Bothus podas from the Gulf of Palermo (Mediterranean). An XX-XY sex-determining mechanism presumably occurs in this species. Application of silver staining (NORs) along with G- and C-banding techniques showed that secondary constrictions occurring in a large metacentric pair were variable in length in different fish. Polymorphisms of these areas seem to have a genetic, rather than transcriptional, basis.

Karyological studies in Coris julis (Pisces, Labridae).

In the present investigation the diploid number 2n = 48 (NF = 58) has been determined for females, primary males, and secondary males of Coris julis from the Gulf of Palermo. Differentiated sex chromosomes have not been observed in the population under study.

A male XO sex-determining mechanism in Theodoxus meridionalis (Neritidae) (Prosobranchia, Archaeogastropoda).

The haploid number of chromosomes n=12+h and the diploid values 2n=25 in males, and 2n=26 in females, have been determined for three geographically separated populations of Theodoxus meridionalis (Neritidae). A male XO sex-determining mechanism has been observed for this species.

Organometallic complexes with biological molecules II. Synthesis, solid-state characterization andin vivo Cytotoxicity of Diorganotin(IV)chloro and Triorganotin(IV)chloro derivatives of Penicillin G

Several new diorganotin(IV)chloro and triorganotin(IV)chloro penicillin G derivatives have been prepared. The isolated compounds showed 1:1 stoichiometry, with formulae R2SnClpenG and R3SnClpenGNa, respectively (penG− = penicillin G− = 4- thia - 1 - azabicyclo[3.2.0]heptane-2-carboxylate, 3,3-dimethyl-7-oxo-6-(2-phenylacet-amido) anion; R = Me, Bu, Ph). The coordination environment around the the tin(IV) atom, in all of the complexes, was trigonal bipyramidal. Penicillin G behaved as a monoanionic, bismonodentate ligand in R2SnClpenG through the β-lactamic carbonyl and unidentate ester-type carboxylate anion, and as unidentate through the β-lactamic carbonyl in R3SnClpenGNa, as inferred on …

Cytogenetics of the land snails Cantareus aspersus and C. mazzullii (Mollusca: Gastropoda: Pulmonata).

A cytogenetic study was carried out on the chromosomes and nuclear DNA contents of the land snails Cantareus aspersus and C. mazzullii (Gastropoda: Pulmonata). Chromosomes were studied using Giemsa staining, banding methods and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) with three repetitive DNA probes [18S rDNA, (GATA)n and (TTAGGG)n]. Results were very similar in the two species both showing (1) 54 bi-armed chromosomes [submetacentrics (SM) C metacentrics (M) C subtelocentrics (ST)]; (2) 10 terminal NORs after sequential application of rDNA FISH and silver staining; (3) uniform DNA fluorescence with CMA3 and DAPI staining and (4) genomic composition considerably enriched both in highly- and…

Cytogenetic characterization ofBrachidontes pharaonis(Fisher P., 1870): Karyotype, banding and fluorescentin situhybridization (fish) (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Mytilidae)

Abstract The mussel Brachidontes pharaonis (Fisher P., 1870) (Bivalvia: Mytilidae) has a diploid chromosomal set of 28 made up of 14 pairs of which eight are mono-armed (ST) and six bi-armed (M+SM). Fourteen bivalents occur in spermatocytes both at pachytene and metaphase-I. The use of combined silver and CMA3 staining reveals that nucleolus organizer regions (NORs) are located terminally on the long arm of a small subtelocentric chromosome pair (pair 14) and are compartmentalized in GC base pairs. A Paracentrotus lividus (Echinodermata) 4.3 kilobase (kb) rDNA probe (prR14) consisting of sequences from the 3′ end of 18S rDNA to the 3′ end of 26S rDNA was used to map the rDNA loci of B. phar…

Spermatocyte chromosome alterations intruncatella subcylindrica (L., 1767) (Mollusca, Mesogastropoda) following exposure to dibutyltin(IV) and tributyltin(IV) chlorides

In order to analyze chromosomes for possible numerical and structural alterations in response to exposure to organotin(IV) compounds, gastropod Truncatella subcylindrica specimens were treated with dibutyltin(IV) and tributyltin(IV) chloride solutions with different exposure times. Experimental evidence suggests that tributyltin(IV) chloride is more toxic to this organism than dibutyltin(IV) dichloride at low concentrations. Furthermore, the toxicity responses to these organotin(IV) derivatives seem to be proportional to both concentration and exposure time. The following structural lesions have been identified by comparative analysis of spermatocyte chromosomes from untreated specimens and…

Chromosomal studies of five tropical scorpaeniform fishes (Teleostei, Scorpaenidae)

Abstract The karyotypes of five species of Scorpaenidae (genera Scorpenopsis, Dendrochirus and Pterois) from the Indian Ocean were analysed using various banding methods and in situ hybridisation with a ribosomal probe. All the species investigated are characterised by a diploid set of 48 chromosomes (mainly acrocentric and/or subtelocentric) and by a NOR location on the small arm of a medium‐sized pair. All the chromosomes stained uniformly with DAPI, whereas C‐banding evidenced a small amount of hete‐rochromatin. Despite the marked morphological differences among these species, the low degree of diversification of the chromosome sets with respect to the ancestral set of teleosts (2n = 48 …

Organometallic Complexes with Biological Molecules: VIII. Synthesis, Solid State andin vivo Investigation of Triorganotin(IV) Derivatives ofL-Homocysteic Acid

Several new triorganotin(IV) derivatives of L-homocysteic acid (L-HCAH) with formula R3Sn(L-HCA) (R=Me, nBu, Ph) have been synthesized. Their solid-state configurations were determined by IR and Mossbauer spectroscopy. The tin(IV) atom is five-coordinated in all the complexes, with the L-homocysteic acid behaving as a monoanionic bidentate ligand coordinating the tin(IV) atom through a chelating or bridging carboxylate group. The sulfonate (SO3−) and NH3+ groups of L-homocysteic acid maintain their free acid configuration and hence do not participate to the coordination of the tin(IV) atom. Coordination hypotheses have been checked through the correlation between the Mossbauer parameter iso…

Characterization of mitotic chromosomes of four species of the genus Diplodus: Karyotypes and chromosomal nucleolar organizer region phenotypes

Karyotypes have been described in four Mediterranean species of the genus Diplodus (Teleostei, Sparidae), D. vulgaris, D. puntazzo, D. sargus and D. annularis. Chromosomes were mainly acrocentric in all but D. vulgaris, where certain chromosome pairs were subtelocentric. A remarkable intraspecific heteromorphism in the number of NOR-bearing chromosomes along with a substantial interspecific variability in position of chromosomal Ag signals have been encountered. The presumed origin of multiple NOR-bearing chromosomes in Diplodus species and variation of the NOR location is discussed. ? 1996 The Fisheries Society of the British Isles

Characterization of mitotic and meiotic, chromosomes of the vermetid gastropodDendropoma (Novastoa) Petraeum(Monterosato, 1884) (Mollusca, Caenogastropoda)

Abstract The vermetid gastropod Dendropoma (Novastoa) petraeum from the Northwestern coast of Sicily was investigated karyologically. The count of spermatocyte bivalents at diakinesis gave the haploid number of this species as n=17. The count of mitotic chromosomes in males, females and early developing embryos gave the diploid number as 2n=34. Irrespective of sex, the karyotype of D. petraeum consists of 17 homomorphic chromosome pairs, of which 8 are metacentric, 4 subtelocentric and 5 acrocentric. This species is characterized by the presence of two chromosomes per cell involved in nucleolus organization (NOR) and by a low amount of constitutive heterochromatin.

Organometallic complexes with biological molecues, part 3.in vivo cytotoxicity of diorganotin (IV) chloro and triorganotin (IV) chloro derivatives of penicillin g on chromosomes ofaphanius fasciatus (pisces, cyprinodontiformes)

In order to obtain a continuous source of mitotic metaphases, gill tissue of Aphaius fasciatus (Pisces, Cyprinodontiformes) has been successfully employed. Results gathered after exposure of fish to R2SnClpenG, R3SnClpenGNa, to the parents R2SnCl2, R3SnCl and to penGNa (penGNa = penicillinGNa; R = methyl, butyl and phenyl) suggest that both the parent organotin (IV) chloride and organotin (IV) chloropenG derivatives are toxic while penGNa exerts no significant toxic activity. Essentially, all of the chromosome abnormalities are classifiable as irregularly staining of chromosomes, breakages, side-arm bridges or pseudochiasmata.

CYTOGENETICS OF THE SNAILS CANTAREUS ASPERSUS AND C. MAZZULLII (MOLLUSCA: GASTROPODA: PULMONATA)

Organometallic complexes with biological molecules. XVIII. Alkyltin(IV) cephalexinate complexes: synthesis, solid state and solution phase investigations

Abstract Dialkyltin(IV) and trialkyltin(IV) complexes of the deacetoxycephalo-sporin-antibiotic cephalexin [7-( d -2-amino-2-phenylacetamido)-3-methyl-3-cephem-4-carboxylic acid] (Hceph) have been synthesized and investigated both in solid and solution phase. Analytical and thermogravimetric data supported the general formula Alk 2 SnOHceph · H 2 O and Alk 3 Snceph · H 2 O (Alk=Me, n -Bu), while structural information has been gained by FT-IR, 119 Sn Mossbauer and 1 H, 13 C, 119 Sn NMR data. In particular, IR results suggested polymeric structures both for Alk 2 SnOHceph · H 2 O and Alk 3 Snceph · H 2 O. Moreover, cephalexin appears to behave as monoanionic tridentate ligand coordinating th…

Conventional karyotype, nucleolar organizer regions and genome size in five Mediterranean species of Syngnathidae (Pisces, Syngnathiformes)

Conventional karyotypes, NOR-bearing chromosomes by means of silver impregnation and genome size were investigated in five Mediterranean species in three genera of the Syngnathidae. A karyotype of 48 subtelocentric-acrocentric chromosomes was found in the seahorse Hippocampus hippocampus (FN=48) while a diploid value of 44 occurred in H. guttulatus (2 sm-m+42 a; FN=46) and the pipefish Syngnathus abaster (44 a; FN=44) and S. typhle (44 a; FN=44). The pipefish Nerophis ophidion, possessing a diploid chromosomal set of 58 made up of 50 meta-submetacentric and eight subteloacrocentric elements (FN=108) and a genome size three to four times larger than those known to date, differs cytogenetical…

Chromosome analysis using different staining techniques and fluorescent in situ hybridization in Cerithium vulgatum (Gastropoda: Cerithiidae)

In the present paper one population of the “large” subtidal mollusc Cerithium vulgatum Bruguiere, 1792 (Gastropoda: Cerithiidae) from the Northwestern coast of Sicily was investigated from a karyological point of view. The chromosome complement was Giemsa stained, conventionally karyotyped in 18 homomorphic chromosome pairs (10 bi-armed and 8 mono-armed), and subsequently analysed using silver, CMA3 and DAPI staining, and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) with three repetitive DNA probes [ribosomal DNA (rDNA), (TTAGGG)n and (GATA)n]. FISH with the rDNA probe consistently mapped major ribosomal sites (18S-28S rDNA) in the terminal region of the short arms of one small sized mono-armed…

Chromosomes of the Parasitic Isopod Anilocra Physodes

AbstractCounts of mitotic chromosomes have allowed to determine 2n = 12 as the modal diploid number of Anilocra physodes. Application of the C-banding technique reveals that two hetero-chromatic blocks bordering the centromeric region occur in each chromosome. This supports the notion that the actual low chromosome number of A. physodes may have been derived through a process of Robertsonian fusion.

Chromosomal polymorphism associated with Robertsonian fusion in Seriola dumerili (Risso, 1810) (Pisces: Carangidae)

The diploid numbers 2n= 48, and 2n= 47 have been determined for the greater amberjack, Seriola dumerili. A chromosome polymorphism due to Robertsonian fusion is present in this species. A simple sex-determining mechanism has not been observed.

Multiple-chromosome sex systems in the darkling beetles Blaps gigas and Blaps gibba (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae)

We have studied mitotic and meiotic chromosomes in the males of two species of Blaps: B. gigas and B. gibba. Karyological characteristics such as the occurrence of a multivalent configuration at diakinesis and two types of metaphase-II spreads support the notion that multiple-chromosome sex systems involving five chromosomes in B. gigas and eight chromosomes in B. gibba have developed in these species. Results obtained by means of silver staining and C-banding techniques suggest that the complex sex systems occurring in B. gigas and B. gibba may have originated from exchanges of terminal ribosomal genes among the Y chromosome and some autosomes.

ChemInform Abstract: Chemically Induced Chromosome Damage in Early-Developing Embryos of Anilocra Physodes L. (Crustacea, Isopoda) Following Exposure to Bis( dimethyltin(IV)chloro)protoporphyrin IX.

In order to obtain chromosome preparations from early-developing embryos of Anilocra physodes, a squash technique has been successfully employed. Results gathered after exposure of this material to bis[dimethyltin(IV)chloro]protoporphyrin IX {[(CH3)2SnCl]2 - Protoporphyrin IX} solutions at different exposure times suggest that this chemical complex is capable of producing abnormal metaphase and anaphase figures in proportion to its concentration and not to exposure length. Essentially, all of the chromosome abnormalities are classifiable as chromosome fragments mainly observed at the metaphase stage; chromosome bridges; and large decondensed chromosome regions.

Ripetive DNA analysed using banding techniques, single-and double-colour FISH in the slug Milax nigricans (Mollusca: Pulmonata)

CYTOGENETICS OF THE AMPHIPOD JASSA MARMORATA (COROPHIOIDEA: ISCHYROCERIDAE): KARYOTYPE MORPHOLOGY, CHROMOSOME BANDING, FLUORESCENTIN SITUHYBRIDIZATION, AND NUCLEAR DNA CONTENT

Abstract Developing embryos proved to be a suitable source of cells for advanced cytological investigations on Amphipods. Conventional karyotyping, Ag- and fluorochrome-staining, C-banding, endonuclease digestion, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) and nuclear DNA flow cytometric assay were tested in the Ischyroceridae Jassa marmorata. The karyotype consists of 6 chromosome pairs of which 5 are metacentric and 1 subtelocentric. The rDNA/FISH revealed that major ribosomal cistrons are located on the telomeric regions in the short arm of pair 6. A marked size variation of hybridization signals was observed. Silver and fluorochrome staining enhanced no chromosome regions. Constitutive he…

localizzazione cromosomi ed analisi delle dinaniche evolutive del locus HSA7q11.23 William Beuren nei primati

FISH mapping of 18S rDNA and (TTAGGG)n sequences in two pipefish species (Gasteroisteiformes: Syngnathidae).

1Istituto di Scienze Marine, Sezione di Venezia, CNR, Castello 1364/a, 30122 Venezia, Italy 2Dipartimento di Biologia Animale, Universita di Palermo, Via Archirafi 18, 90123 Palermo, Italy 3Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Universita “Ca’ Foscari”, Castello 2737/b 30122 Venezia, Italy 4Istituto di Ecologia e Biologia Ambientale, Universita di Urbino “Carlo Bo”, Via I. Maggetti 22, 61029 Urbino (PU), Italy

Multiple sex-chromosome system and other karyological characterizations of Pterotrachea hippocampus (Mollusca: Mesogastropoda)

Two modal diploid numbers of chromosomes were found for Pterotraches hippocampus Philippi (Mollusca: Mesogastropoda) collected from the Gulf of Palermo in 1990: 2n=31 and 32 for males and females, respectively. This, along with other karyological characteristics such as the occurrence of a trivalent configuration at diakinesis and two types of metaphase-II spreads in spermatocytes, supports the notion that a X1X2Y♂/X1X1X2X2♀ sex mechanism operates in the species investigated here. Silver nitrate procedure revealed an intraindividual variation in the Ag-staining pattern occurring in this species. The majority of the chromosome pair displayed terminal and/or interstitial heterochromatic block…

Karyotype analysis, nucleolus organizer regions and C-banding pattern of Eisenia foetida (oligochaeta, lumbricidae)

The diploid number 2n=22 and haploid number n=11 found for Eisenia foetida from Palermo, Italy, confirm earlier data for this species from other localities. Analyses of silver-stained and C-banded mitotic and meiotic chromosomes suggest that a single chromosome pair has active NORs which correspond with C-positive regions. The occurrence of nucleolus activity during spermatogenesis of E. foetida is ascertained.

rDNA (18S-28S and 5S) co-localization and linkage between ribosomal genes and (TTAGGG)n telomeric sequence in the earthworm Octodrilus complanatus (Annelida: Oligochaeta: Lumbricidae) revealed by single- and double-colour FISH

Spermatogonial and metaphase I chromosomes of the lumbricid earthworm Octodrilus complanatus (Annelida: Oligochaeta) were examined using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) with three repetitive DNA probes-5S rDNA, 18S-26S rDNA, and (TTAGGG)(n). Single-color FISH consistently mapped one chromosome pair per spread using either 5S rDNA or 18S-26S rDNA as probes. Simultaneous (18S-26S)-5S and (18S-26S)-(TTAGGG)(n) FISH demonstrated that repeated units of the two ribosomal families were overlapped and closely associated with telomeric sequences.

Repetitive DNAs in the slug Milax nigricans: association of ribosomal (18S–28S and 5S rDNA) and (TTAGGG)n telomeric sequences) in the slug M. nigricans (Mollusca: Gastropoda: Pulmonata)

Spermatocyte chromosomes of the slug Milax nigricans (Mollusca: Gastropoda: Pulmonata) were studied using silver staining (Ag-NOR) and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) with four repetitive DNA probes [18S rDNA, 5S rDNA, (TTAGGG)n and (GATA)n]. Silver impregnation was inadequate to localize the chromosome sites of nucleolus organizer regions (NORs) since no silver dots occurred on the chromosomes at spermatogonial metaphase and a diffuse silver stainability could be observed on the bivalents at metaphase-I. Unlike silver staining, single-colour rDNA FISH consistently mapped major ribosomal sites (18S-28S rDNA) on two small-sized chromosomes in spermatogonial cells and on the correspo…

Brief communication. Karyotype analysis, banding, and fluorescent in situ hybridization in the scarab beetle Gymnopleurus sturmi McLeay (Coleoptera Scarabaeoidea: Scarabaeidae)

Conventional staining, differential banding, and in situ hybridization with both ribosomal and telomeric probes to mitotic chromosomes of Gymnopleurus sturmi (Scarabaeoidea : Scarabaeidae) are described. The karyotype is distinguished by a pericentric inversion polymorphism in chromosome 3, which is either acrocentric or subtelocentric. Silver staining (Ag-NOR) and chromomycin A3 (CMA3), failed to study the detection of nucleolar organizer regions (NORs), due to the extensive silver and CMA3 stainability of all GC-rich heterochromatin. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) using a Paracentrotus lividus (Echinodermata) rDNA probe mapped the ribosomal RNA genes (rDNA). FISH with the all-hu…

NOR regions of polychaete worms of the genus Ophryotrocha studied by chromosome banding techniques and FISH.

This article reports the results of cytogenetic analyses carried out on 10 species of polychaete worms belonging to the genus Ophryotrocha (Dorvilleidae). Nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) were characterized by Ag staining, C-banding, CMA3 staining, and ribosomal fluorescent in situ hybridization (rDNA FISH). Extensive intraspecific variation in NOR number and distribution were observed in O. costlowi, O. sp. macrovifera, O. notoglandulata, O.l. labronica, O. l. pacifica (2n = 6), O. p. puerilis, O. diadema (2n = 8), O. hartmanni, O. gracilis (2n = 10). In O. sp. robusta (2n = 10), Ag-NORs were always located on a single chromosome pair. CMA3 staining suggests a possible trend toward a GC-…

REPETITIVE DNAs IN THE SLUG MILAX NIGRICANS: ASSOCIATION OF RIBOSOMAL AND TELOMERIC SEQUENCES IN THE SLUG M. NIGRICANS (MOLLUSCA: GASTEROPODA: PULMONATA)

Chromosomal location polymorphism of major rDNA sites in two Mediterranean populations of the killifih Aphanius fasciatus (Pisces: Cyprinodontidae)

The chromosomes of the Mediterranean killifish, Aphanius fasciatus from two populations, the Lagoon of Venice (LV, 15 specimens) and the Lagoon ‘Stagnone di Marsala’ (Sicily) (SM, 48 specimens), have been investigated using conventional Ag-staining and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) with 18S rDNA probe. The two methods revealed variation in the number of major rDNA sites ranging from 8 to 14 (LV) and from 1 to 4 (SM) per individual. The fact that each individual possessed its own number of sites implies that observed variation was structural. Moreover, overlapping of silver staining and FISH patterns demonstrated that all ribosomal genes were transcriptionally active in each speci…

The chromosomes of 16 molluscan species

Abstract Chromosome numbers were determined for two species of Placophora, eleven species of Gastropoda, one species of Pelecypoda and two species of Cephalopoda. No heterotypic or supernumerary chromosome resulted from the analysis of meiotic and, when possible, of mitotic chromosomes. For this reason no positive evidence emerges for the presence of differentiated sex chromosome pairs. Data available seem to indicate that evolution within the Mollusca phylum has been accompanied by a decrease in both chromosome number and DNA content (according to Hinegardner, 1974), if we consider subclasses, orders and families (apart from the subclass Prosobranchia). On the contrary the primitive class …

Karyological and Molecular Characterization of Mullus surmuletus and Mullus barbatus(Pisces, Mullidae).

The modal diploid number of 44 chromosomes has been found in Mullus surmuletus and Mullus barbatus (Pisces, Mullidae). Two middle-sized subtelocentric chromosomes are involved in nucleolus organization (NORs) in both Mullus species. Despite similarity in the NOR location, valuable differences in the restriction pattern of the ribosomal genes have been observed.

FISH mapping of 18S-28S and 5S ribosomal DNA, (GATA)n and (TTAGGG)n telomeric repeats in the periwinkle Melarhaphe neritoides (Prosobranchia, Gastropoda, Caenogastropoda)

Spermatocyte chromosomes of Melarhaphe neritoides (Mollusca, Prosobranchia, Caenogastropoda) were studied using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) with four repetitive DNA probes (18S rDNA, 5S rDNA, (TTAGGG)n and (GATA)n). Single-colour FISH consistently mapped one chromosome pair per spread using either 18S or 5S rDNA as probes. The telomeric sequence (TTAGGG)n hybridized with termini of all chromosomes whereas the (GATA)n probe did not label any areas. Simultaneous 18S-5S rDNA and 18S-(TTAGGG)n FISH demonstrated that repeated units of the three multicopy families are closely associated on the same chromosome pair.

Multiple chromosome polymorphism in the gobiid fish Gobius niger jozo L. 1758 (Pisces, Gobiidae).

By analysing chromosome preparation from 42 Gobius niger jozo specimens from the Gulf of Palermo (Sicily), four different karyotypes were observed: A (2n=52; NF=60), B (2n=51; NF=60), C (2n=50; NF=60) and D (2n=49; NF=60). A chromosome polymorphism due to Robertsonian fusion is present in this species.

Intra-populational and intra-individual mosaicisms of Uranoscopus scaber L. (Perciformes, Uranoscopidae)

Intra-populational and intra-individual mosaicisms of Uranoscopus scaber L. (Perciformes, Uranoscopidae)

"KARYOTYPE, BANDING AND rDNA FISH IN THE SCARAB BEETLE ANOPLOTRUPES STERCOROSUS (COLEOPTERA SCARABAEOIDEA: GEOTRUPIDAE). DESCRIPTION AND COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

Six specimens of Anoplotrupes stercorosus (Coleoptera Scarabaeoidea: Geotrupidae) were analysed using conventional staining, banding techniques and fluorescent in situ hybridization with a ribosomal probe (rDNA FISH). Detailed karyotype description was also joined to a comparative analysis between present data and those previously reported for Thorectes intermedius [Chromosome Res. 7 (1999) 1]. The two species, both belonging to the tribe Geotrupini, show the same modal number but different autosomal morphology which is in contrast with the high chromosome stability argued for Geotrupinae during the last three decades. Moreover, a detailed comparison reveals the occurrence of a plesiomorphi…

Chromosomal nucleolar organizer region (NOR) phenotypes in nine species of the genus Ophryotrocha (Polychaeta: Dorvilleidae)

Chromosomal nucleolar organizer region (NOR) phenotypes have been characterized in nine species of the genus Ophryotrocha (Polychaeta: Dorvilleidae), namely O. notoglandulata, O. sp. macrovifera, O. sp. labronica pacifica, O. labronica labronica, O. puerilis puerilis, O. diadema, O. sp. robusta, O. gracills and O. hartmanni. Irrespective of chromosome number and morphology, Ag positive regions were terminally located in all but one species, O. diadema, where the NORs were pericentromerical in a metacentric pair. The presence of a single chromosome pair bearing NOR in invertebrates is considered an ancestral trait. According to this assumption, O. sp. robusta, O. dialema, and perhaps O. p. p…

Chemically induced chromosome damage in early-developing embryos ofAnilocra physodes L. (Crustacea, Isopoda) following exposure to bis[Dimethyltin(IV)Chloro]protoporphyrin IX

In order to obtain chromosome preparations from early-developing embryos of Anilocra physodes, a squash technique has been successfully employed. Results gathered after exposure of this material to bis[dimethyltin(IV)chloro]protoporphyrin IX {[(CH3)2SnCl]2 - Protoporphyrin IX} solutions at different exposure times suggest that this chemical complex is capable of producing abnormal metaphase and anaphase figures in proportion to its concentration and not to exposure length. Essentially, all of the chromosome abnormalities are classifiable as chromosome fragments mainly observed at the metaphase stage; chromosome bridges; and large decondensed chromosome regions.

Chromosome Analysis and rDNA FISH in The Stag Beetle Dorcus Parallelipipedus L. (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea: Lucanidae)

In the present work the chromosome complement (2n = 18; 8AA + XY) of the stag beetle Dorcus parallelipipedus L. (Scarabaeoidea: Lucanidae) is analyzed using conventional Giemsa staining, banding techniques and ribosomal fluorescent in situ hybridization (rDNA FISH). rDNA FISH remains the unique tool for providing a clear-cut identification of Nucleolar Organizer Regions (NORs) when conventional banding methods such as silver- and CMA3-staining proved to be inadequate. The dull, homogeneous CMA3 fluorescence of all chromosomes indicates the absence of markedly GC rich compartmentalized regions in D. parallelipipedus genome. Silver impregnation inadequacy in detecting NOR regions is to be sou…

.Chromosome sex determination and Y-autosome fusion in Blennius tentacularis Brunnich, 1765 (Pisces, Blennidae)

Diploid modal numbers of 2n=48 for females, and 2n=48 and 2n=47 for males of Blennius tentacularis caught in the Gulf of Palermo (Sicily) are established. Chromosome sex-determination is proposed for this species in which a Y-autosome fusion has been found.

Karyotypes, Banding Patterns and Nuclear DNA Content inCrepidula unguiformisLamarck, 1822, andNaticarius stercusmuscarum(Gmelin, 1791) (Mollusca, Caenogastropoda)

ABSTRACT The chromosome complement and the nuclear DNA content in two caenogastropod species from the Mediterranean Sea, Crepidula unguiformis (Calyptraeidae) and Naticarius stercusmuscarum (Naticidae), were investigated by the application of both classical and molecular cytogenetic methods. Despite the constancy of haploid chromosome numbers (n = 17 in both species), C. unguiformis and N. stercusmuscarum show genome sizes amounting to 6.36 and 2.63 pg, respectively. Moreover, while N. stercusmuscarum resembles cytogenetically the other neotaenioglossan caenogastropods studied so far, C. unguiformis differs in: (i) number and location of rDNA clusters (ii), composition of telomeric repeats,…

Evidence for male XO sex-chromosome system in Pentodon bidens punctatum (Coleoptera Scarabaeoidea: Scarabaeidae) with X-linked 18S-28S rDNA clusters

In scarab beetle species of the genus Pentodon, the lack of analysis of sex chromosomes in females along with the poor characterization of sex chromosomes in the males, prevented all previous investigations from conclusively stating sex determination system. In this study, somatic chromosomes from females and spermatogonial chromosomes from males of Pentodon bidens punctatum (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea: Scarabaeidae) from Sicily have been analyzed using non-differential Giemsa staining. Two modal numbers of chromosomes were obtained: 2n = 20 and 19 in females and males, respectively. This finding along with other karyological characteristics such as the occurrence of one unpaired, heterotypi…

WILLIAMS-BEUREN MAPPING IN CALLITHRIX ARGENTATA, CALLICEBUS CUPREUS AND ALOUATTA CARAYA INDICATES DIFFERENT PATTERNS OF CHROMOSOMAL REARRANGEMENTS IN NEOTROPICAL PRIMATES

Human chromosome 7 has a complex syntenic origin. It was divided into two segments in both the ancestral primate karyotype and in Platyrrhini. Apparently, a small segment in the ancestral platyrrhine karyotype was associated with HSA5 and the remainder formed a middle-sized submetacentric. We tested the dynamics of platyrrhine chromosomes by hybridizing the locus specific Willams-Beuren probe (7q 11.23, 450 kb) to chromosomes of representative species from the three families of the New World monkeys recently proposed by molecular genomics: Cebidae, Callithrix argentata (bare ear marmoset or silvery marmoset, 2n = 44); Pitheciidae, Callicebus cupreus [red titi monkey, or coppery monkey, 2n =…

Heterochromatin of the scarab beetle, Bubas bison (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) II. Evidence for AT-rich compartmentalization and a high amount of rDNA copies

An unexpected result arising from a previous characterization of the scarab beetle Bubas bison (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) heterochromatin was its unusual homogeneous reaction to different staining methods. In particular, silver stainability of heterochromatic ends of all chromosomes prevented identification of the number of rDNA transcriptionally active regions. Data formerly obtained using silver impregnation (Ag-NOR), C- G- and DAPI banding are here improved and completed by application of CMA(3) staining and rDNA FISH with the aim to investigate heterochromatin base composition and locate rDNA regions with respect to NOR-associated heterochromatin. Our results show that B. bison has a hi…

Organometallic complexes with biological molecules: V.In vivo cytotoxicity of diorganotin(IV)-amoxicillin derivatives in mitotic chromosomes ofrutilus rubilio (pisces, cyprinidae)

In order to test in vivo cytotoxicity of diorganotin(IV)-amoxicillin (amox) derivatives, mitotic chromosomes of Rutilus rubilio (Pisces, Cyprinidae) have been analyzed using two different chromosome-staining techniques. Results gathered after exposure of fish to the free amox.3H 2 O, R 2 SnClamox.2H 2 O, and R 2 Snamox 2 .2H 2 O (R = methyl, butyl and phenyl ; amox - = 6-[D(-)-β-amino-p-hydroxyphenylacetamido]penicillinate) suggest that methyl derivatives seem to exert a lower cytotoxicity than butyl and phenyl ones and that R 2 Snamox 2 .2H 2 O derivatives are more toxic than R 2 Snclamox.2H 2 O at both 10 -5 and 10 -7 mol dm -3 concentrations. The following structural lesions have been id…

Karyotype analysis of the sea urchinParacentrotus lividus (Echinodermata): evidence for a heteromorphic chromosome sex mechanism

A consistent diploid number of 2n = 36 was determined for the sea urchinParacentrotus lividus from the Gulf of Palermo by analysis of mitotic chromosomes of both early developing embryos and male gonads. The haploid numbern = 18 was determined by counts of spermatocyte bivalents at diakinesis. A heteromorphic chromosome sex mechanism of the XY type is likely present in this species. This is indicated by the occurrence of a chromosomal pair, pair No. 2, which is heteromorphic in both morphology and size in about 50% of the mitotic figures (metaphases and anaphases) of einbryos. In addition, heteromorphism of the same pair of chromosomes occurred during spermatogonial metaphases in the five m…

Karyotype analysis, nucleolar organizer regions(NORs), and C-banding pattern of Dicentrarchus iabrax(L.) and Dicentrarchus punctatus(Block, 1792)(Pisces, Perciformes) with evidence of chromosomal structural polymorphism.

Chromosomes of Dicentrarchus labrax and Dicentrarchus punctatus collected from the Gulf of Palermo are examined from kidney cells. The diploid chromosome number in both species is 2n=48. Ag-NOR and C-banding analyses revealed the presence of structural chromosomal polymorphism involving pair 1.A comparative analysis among the Giemsa, NOR- and C-banded karyotypes suggests that a close phylogenetic relationship between D. labrax and D. punctatus occurs. There are evidences for a conservative evolutionary trend in this genus.