Inter- and intra-individual chromosome variability in Thamnomys (Grammomys) gazellae (Rodentia, Muridae) B-chromosomes and structural heteromorphisms

The present paper reports intra- and inter-individual variability related to the occurrence of numerous B-chromosomes in Thamnomys (Grammomys) gazellae, a species of African Climber rat belonging to the 'dolichurus' group. The frequency of B-chromosomes in somatic and spermatogonial metaphases is investigated, together with their behaviour during meiosis. Moreover, G-banding makes it possible to identify a structural polymorphism resulting from a pericentric inversion in a large chromosome (no. 6). The distribution of the constitutive heterochromatin has been assessed by C-banding. The nucleolus organizer regions (NOR's) were located by means of silver staining in four chromosomal pairs (nos. 1, 2, 4, and 6). The karyotype of T. (G.) gazellae is compared with that of other taxa of the dolichurus group, particularly the Somaliland population which also exhibits the occurrence of B-chromosomes. The origin and significance of B-chromosomes is discussed.