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Updated: Jul 14, 2026

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Published on: August 8, 2016
Nuclear genome size in Selaginella
Damon P Little1, Robbin C Moran, Eric D Brenner
1Lewis B. and Dorothy Cullman Program for Molecular Systematic Studies, The New York Botanical Garden, Bronx, NY 10458-5126, USA. dlittle@nybg.org
This study measured nuclear genome size in nine Selaginella species using flow cytometry, finding a strong correlation between genome size and chromosome number. These findings provide new insights into Selaginella genome evolution.
Area of Science:
- Plant genomics
- Flow cytometry applications
- Evolutionary biology
Background:
- Selaginella species exhibit diverse morphological and ecological traits.
- Understanding genome size variation is crucial for plant evolution studies.
- Previous genome size data for Selaginella is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate nuclear genome size for nine Selaginella species.
- To investigate the relationship between genome size and chromosome number in Selaginella.
- To assess potential causes for reproductive issues in cultivated S. moellendorffii.
Main Methods:
- Flow cytometry was used to estimate nuclear genome size.
- Chromosome numbers were determined for the sampled species.
- Statistical analysis (Spearman's rank correlation) was employed.
Main Results:
- Nuclear genome size estimates ranged from 0.086 to 0.112 pg (84-110 Mb).
- A significant positive correlation was found between genome size and chromosome number (p = 0.00003725).
- Flow cytometry data from herbarium and fresh S. moellendorffii were comparable.
Conclusions:
- Genome size in Selaginella is strongly linked to chromosome number.
- The limited fertility in cultivated S. moellendorffii is unlikely due to abnormal chromosome number.
- Flow cytometry is a reliable method for genome size estimation, even with herbarium specimens.
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