Question

What is cytotaxonomy?

Answer 1

Hint:In this classification of organisms is done on the basis of their chromosome analysis and is very important for taxonomic studies.

Complete answer:
It is the branch of taxonomy in which organisms are classified according to their chromosome number, structure and behavior. Cytotaxonomy deals with the classification and relationship of organisms based on their detailed comparative chromosome analysis. Chromosome numbers are determined at the stage mitosis and most cell types carry two sets of chromosomes(2n) i.e. diploid. Depending on the position of centromere chromosome are classified into three categories i.e. Acrocentric, meso-centric and telocentric chromosome. Position of the chromosome is an important taxonomic character. Cytogenetic studies represent both structural and functional homologies among taxa based on their evolutionary conservation. It has been known that some large chromosomes have been made by the fusion of smaller chromosomes. Herbaceous plants carry larger chromosomes than wooden plants. Herbaceous plants are more advanced than the wooden plant. Human beings carry 46 chromosomes while apes carry 48 sets of chromosomes. This reduction in chromosome number is achieved through the translocation of chromosome arm between two acrocentric chromosomes. It has been assumed that apes were the ancestors of humans according to the cytological studies.

Significance of cytotaxonomy:
The role of cytotaxonomy is very important in taxonomic studies. Cytotaxonomy is more significant than physiological taxonomy because it is the comparative study of chromosomes at the molecular level. Small changes in chromosomes can be detected among the individual. Chromosomes are constituted by the DNA, variation in the DNA leads to change in chromosome which ultimately causes variation among the individual, species, genus and everything.

Note:Cytotaxonomy is a part of taxonomic biology that deals with the classification of organisms. Cytogenetic studies represent both structural and functional homologies among taxa based on their evolutionary conservation.