A European species of marsh grass called Spartina maritima has a diploid number (2n) of 60. A similar species native to North America, S. alterniflora, has 2n = 62. In 1835, the North American species was found growing near the European species in Southampton, England, after being accidentally imported. Occasional sterile hybrids were noted. In 1895 a new species, S. anglica, was first identified at Southampton and subsequently became common. The new species has been identified as a fertile hybrid of the original two species. What is the 2n chromosome number of the hybrids that formed from the original two species S. maritima and S. alterniflora?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sterile hybrids would have a chromosome number that is the average of the two parent species, which is (60 + 62) / 2 = 61.

A European Species of Marsh Grass Called Spartina Maritima Has