Chromosome Numbers and Genome Sizes of All 36 Duckweed Species (Lemnaceae)

Usually, chromosome sets (karyotypes) and genome sizes are rather stable for distinct species and therefore of diagnostic value for taxonomy. In combination with (cyto)genomics, both features provide essential cues for genome evolution and phylogenetic relationship studies within and between taxa above the species level. We present for the first time a survey on chromosome counts and genome size measurement for one or more accessions from all 36 duckweed species and discuss the evolutionary impact and peculiarities of both parameters in duckweeds.

Automated summary

Chromosome sets and genome sizes are stable for distinct species and provide essential cues for taxonomy and phylogenetic relationship studies. This study presents a survey on chromosome counts and genome size measurement for all 36 duckweed species, discussing their evolutionary impact and peculiarities in duckweeds.