DNA content, ploidy level determination and genetic variations of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) genotypes Salameh Naser M.* Plant Production Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Mutah University- Al Karak, Jordan *Corresponding Author: Naser M. Salameh, Plant Production Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Mutah University- Al Karak, Jordan, E-Mail: n_salameh@mutah.edu.jo
Online Published on 01 February, 2024. Abstract Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) is a minor small crop in Jordan; it has attracted a lot of attention as a substitute for conventional vegetables throughout the world. There are conflicting reports about chromosome numbers in this species. To determine the ploidy level of different okra genotypes, okra root tips were treated with HCl maceration, enzymatic maceration, and Carmine acid squashing. Treating cells with HCl didn’t macerate the cell in a way that enables chromosome count. The enzymatic treatment combination showed no significant effect on cell maceration. Carmine’s acetic acid squashing method was able to digest the cells but in a way that all chromosomes from neighboring cells gathered, making it difficult to count them from each cell. Flow cytometry as an alternative way to assess okra ploidy, was considered as an option. The genome size of okra ranged from 4.11 pg 2C in genotype 43 to 6.27 pg 2C in genotype 30. Top Keywords Okra, Landraces, Chromosome preparation, Ploidy level, Flow cytometry. Top |