Sourav Bhattacharjee, Chetana Hasnu, Barsha Devi, Masud Zaman and Anima Khatun
Abstract
Karyotype analysis of Homalomena aromatica (Spreng.) Scott. locally known as Monghamaree kosu, a stout, herbaceous and medicinally important aroid used by the Koch Rajbangshi people of Bongaigaon, Assam showed a diploid chromosome count of 2n = 24. The present study found dominance of metacentric chromosomes and symmetric nature of the karyotype indicates evolutionary primitiveness of the species. Presence of satellite is an indicator of chromosome plasticity. Analysis of chromosome asymmetry indices indicates the karyotype homogeneity. The present study can be considered as the first report of chromosomal investigation in H. aromatica that can be a significant step in uncovering the cytological insights within this unexplored endangered aroid of Assam. The cytological data can be useful in further extensive studies for proper utilization and conservation of the aroid.