A Taxonomists Genetic Prediction comes True
Abstract
Based on Drosera scheme of pairing (x II + x I) in 6x F1 hybrid between 8x Celosia argentea and 4x C. cristata, it was concluded by geneticists that the latter is one of the parents of the former. This view was rejected by horticulturists and taxonomists, particularly van Steenis, on the grounds that a species like C. cristata (cockscomb), which has arisen and is existing only in cultivation, cannot be the parent of a very ola and widespread wild taxon, like 8x C. argentea especially because of the grotesque morphology of the cultivated taxon. He predicted that more search may reveal a taxon within C. argentea complex that may fill this gap and which may be the actual ancestor of cultivated C. cristata. With the discovery in Central India of a wild 4x form of C. argentea (showing potentialities for fasciation) van Steenis' prediction has come out true, because this taxon is genetically perfectly compatible with the tetraploid cultivated C. cristata.Downloads
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