Chromosome variability in Chironomus acidophilus Keyl, 1960 from the Afon Goch, UK - a river subject to long-term trace metal pollution

P. Michailova, J. Ilkova, R. Kerr, K. White

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    The structure and function of the salivary gland polytene chromosomes of the larvae of the chironomid Chironomus acidophilus in a UK river subject to long-term acid (pH <3.0) mine drainage (AMD) was examined. Two types of chromosome rearrangements (inherited and somatic) were identified. The inherited aberrations in chromosome arms B, D, F as well as all somatic rearrangements (heterozygous inversions, deficiencies and deletions) were observed for the first time in this species. Asynapsis affected all chromosomes and a new region of activity in chromosome G, designated 'Balbiani ring (BR2)', was detected. Variations in the activity of the Balbiani rings and NOR were evaluated. Changes in the degree of 'puffing' in the telomere region of chromosome G are considered as a compensatory mechanism in response to the environmental conditions in the Afon Goch. As somatic chromosome rearrangements can be caused by stress agents we suggest that the somatic alterations in C. acidophilus indicate the existence of pollution-induced stress. © 2009 Taylor & Francis.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)213-225
    Number of pages12
    JournalAquatic Insects
    Volume31
    Issue number3
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - Sept 2009

    Keywords

    • Acid mine drainage
    • Chironomidae
    • Chromosome rearrangements
    • Polytene chromosomes
    • Trace metals

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