Cytomixis and Associated Meiotic Abnormalities in Pollen Mother Cells of Chlorophytum tuberosum (Roxb.) Baker

Cytomixis associated with chromosomal anomalies was recorded in the meiotic division of pollen mother cells of the wild genotypes of Chlorophytum tuberosum (Roxb.) Baker for the first time. The migration of chromosomal substances was more prevalent in Meiosis-I than Meiosis-II. Cytomixis has been found both in juxtaposed cells by direct contact as well as between remote cells through cytoplasmic strands. During cytomixis, various chromosomal abnormalities, such as chromosomal stickiness, laggards, chromosomal bridges, unequal separation of chromosome, micronuclei formation and loss of chromosome, were recorded. A significant number of empty pollen formations leading to pollen sterility was recorded which is assumed to be a direct result of cytomixis.