A step-by-step protocol for meiotic chromosome counts in flowering plants: A powerful and economical technique revisited

Abstract

Premise: Counting chromosomes is a fundamental botanical technique, yet it is often intimidating and increasingly sidestepped. Once mastered, the basic protocol can be applied to a broad range of taxa and research questions. It also reveals an aspect of the plant genome that is accessible with only the most basic of resources—access to a microscope with 1000× magnification is the most limiting factor. Methods and Results: Here we provide a detailed protocol for choosing, staining, and squashing angiosperm pollen mother cells. The protocol is supplemented by figures and two demonstration videos. Conclusions: The protocol we provide will hopefully demystify and reinvigorate a powerful and once commonplace botanical technique that is available to researchers regardless of their location and resources.