Comparative chromosome studies in the family Leporidae (Lagomorpha, Mammalia)

Chromosome banding patterns of Lepus saxatilis, 2n = 48, and Pronolagus rupestris, 2n = 42, are presented. Comparison of G-banded karyotypes allows the identification of similar elements in both species. The karyotype of P. rupestris differs from that of L. saxatilis by the presence of three fusions in the former. Comparative studies with the fusion products of Oryctolagus cuniculus indicate that fusion and not fission is the major factor in chromosomal evolution of these leporids. The chromosomal conservatism of the hares is compared to the karyotypic variability of the rabbits and possible causes are discussed.