Re: Large Calla

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Hi Jessica,

Plant species within the same genus can indeed hybridize even when they have different numbers of chromosomes. This process can be complex due to the disparity in chromosome numbers.

When two plant species with differing chromosome counts crossbreed, it can result in offspring with unusual chromosome counts. This mismatch can cause complications during meiosis, potentially leading to reduced fertility in the hybrid plant.

However, many plants have a unique capability called polyploidy, which allows them to carry multiple sets of chromosomes. This can actually help overcome the problems related to differing chromosome counts, allowing the hybrid plant to be fertile. This is not a feature seen in many animal species, making plants somewhat unique. 

For example, horses (64 chromosomes) and donkeys (62 chromosomes) are different species in the same genus, Equus, and they can mate to produce mules (63 chromosomes). However, mules are usually sterile because the mismatch in chromosome numbers can result in irregularities during meiosis, thus preventing the formation of viable sex cells.

In the plant world, wheat is a prime example of polyploidy, where hybridization between different species with varying chromosome counts has led to new, fertile species with higher chromosome numbers. This process, over time, has been integral in the domestication and diversification of wheat and other crops.

I haven’t delved much into Araceae intergeneric hybrids with different chromosome numbers but I’m sure studies exist out there!

Robert 

On Jun 13, 2023, at 20:40, Jessica Holbrook <i*@jessholbrook.com> wrote:



Going to let my newbie status show—I’m assuming that biologically, as elsewhere, plants must have the same number of chromosomes to be crossbred? Sorry, was not a science major & those bio/chem 101s are far in the past 😂

On Tue, Jun 13, 2023 at 11:35 Don Martinson <l*@wi.rr.com> wrote:

Hi Jill,

I’ve had one of these large Callas for years.  Because of my climate, it must be brought in for the winter, but strangely (?) that the only season I get blooms.

I know there are various species and I don’t know the chromosome count, but I’ve been curious if there has ever been an attempt to cross them with one of the colored species.

Don Martinson

On Jun 13, 2023, at 8:44 AM, Jessica Holbrook <i*@jessholbrook.com> wrote:

So beautiful!! I love the spotted leaves, several of my varieties have that as well. 

On Tue, Jun 13, 2023 at 01:23 Jill Bell <j*@comcast.net> wrote:

This is the first bloom this spring. It has grown another 2 feet since then.

All the best, 

Jill B. Hudson

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