The Beauty of Chromosomes

The primary objective of this book is to present a sample of plant and animal chromosome pictures that document the different stages of mitosis during cell division. The educational value of the book lies in illustrating various manifestations of the mitotic stages with unmatched clarity coupled with the delight of their aesthetic beauty. It is a historical documentation of examples of chromosome research during the second half of the 20th century. Many unpublished pictures and some previously unreported results are included. Different chromosome preparation techniques and microscopic visualization systems are exemplified. Unique light microscopic pictures of immuno-gold staining, a technique used for a short time largely in one laboratory (Andrew S. Bajer), are presented. References to accomplished works and relevant recent literature are given. The advantages of the large mitotic apparatus of both blood lily (Scadoxus multiflorus ssp. katharinae) and rough-skinned newt (Taricha granulosa ssp. granulosa), and the low chromosome number in Indian muntjac (Muntiacus muntjak), are at your hand. Enjoy it.