Chromosomal Polymorphism in Wild Populations of Vicia Sativa L.

SUMMARY

Three different chromosome numbers, 2 n = 10, 2 n 12 and 2 n = 14 have been found in the wild populations of Vicia sativa of Israel. In both the 2 n = 10 and 2 n = 12 forms two different karyotypes were present but the 2 n = 14 type apparently has a stable karyotype. The 2 n = 10 types of V. sativa grow mainly in man-made habitats while the 2 n= 12 and 2 n = 14 types are usually confined to primary habitats. Occasionally, plants having different chromosome numbers or karyotypes form mixed populations. No definite connection between chromosome types and taxonomic units could be established within V. sativa but it is worth emphasising that only var. amphicarpa had 2 n = 14. This vetch is unique also in bearing subterraneous pods and its chromosome complement is the shortest in the entire aggregate. These facts have been taken as an indication that var. amphicarpa is an advanced form in the V. sativa aneuploid series.