Effect of low and high temperatures on mitosis and chromosomes in root meristems of barley and maize

Abstract EN

The effect of temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5()°C on mitosis and chromosomes in the root meristems of barley (Hordctmi vulgar?) and maize (Zen mays) has been investigated.

Both low and high temperature treatments resulted in a considerable reduction of mitotic activity in both plants.

These temperatures also induced a number of chromosomal irregularities including the induction of C-metaphase configurations, chromosomal stickiness and the formation of micronuclei.

In comparison barley is more sensitive to high temperatures than maize, whereas, maize was found to be more sensitive to low temperatures.