CHROMOSOME STUDIES ON 50 SPECIES OF APHIDS

Abstract

Two squash methods, a quick examination method and a Feulgen stain method, were used to prepare specimens of apterous female aphids for examination of somatic chromosomes. In 50 species, chromosome counts varied through 2n numbers of 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, and 20, with the greatest number of species (15) having 8 chromosomes. Diploid numbers are listed for all 50 species, and their possible value in the interpretation of the evolution, or in the systematics of, the Aphidoidea is discussed.