The Diploid Taxon in Indian Natural Populations of Physalis L. and its Taxonomic Significance

Abstract

The paper reports the occurrence of diploid cytotype in natural populations of Physalis L. During floristic survey at different regions, we repeatedly collected a diploid cytotype which was previously included under P. minima L. Morphological and crossability studies revealed that they are reproductively isolated and genetically distinct from the other tetraploid taxa. Attempts have been made to determine its correct taxonomic status. This taxon resembles P. pubescens L. in several cytomorphological features. In addition, crosses between these two taxa produced normal fertile hybrids (F1), with regular meiosis and set fruits and seeds spontaneously. These features indicate that the two taxa are genetically uniform and together seem to constitute a single biological species-Physalis pubescens L. Future floras of India, therefore be amended accordingly and list P. pubsecens L. © 1991, Japan Mendel Society, International Society of Cytology. All rights reserved.