Comparative karyotype analysis of 24-chromosome Rana species (R. chensinensis and R. arvalis, Amphibia, Anura)

SUMMARY

Results of a comparative study of the karyotypes of Rana chensinensis and R. arvalis are reported. On the basis of detail morphometrical analysis of each chromosome pair significant karyotype differences were established between two species concerning localization of secondary constriction, the centromere position of 6th chromosome pair and the absolute length of 3 chromosome pairs. The possible mechanisms giving rase to the differences between both karyotypes were discussed. It was suggested that karyotypic divergence of R. arvalis was caused by a pericentric inversion, independent local deletions and transpositions with a consequent amplification of NOR-sites.