Taxonomic Assessment of the Karyological Characteristics of the Sable (Martes zibellina) and Other Representatives of the Genus Martes (Carnivora: Mammalia)

This paper is a revision of the original description of the karyotype of the sable Martes zibellina. It presents data on the mitotic metaphase chromosomes of the female and male of this species and a comparison of their sets with those of closely allied species in the genus Martes. Additionally, a description of the synaptonemal complex (SC) is provided in the early to middle prophase of meiosis in the sable spermatocytes. Comparative analysis confirmed the stability and similarity of the main cytogenetic parameters of sables and martens (2n = 38, NFa = 64–68, X is the average submetacentric and Y is the smallest meta-, submeta-, or acrocentrics). A slight polymorphism associated with the representation of one- or two-armed small elements of the diploid set of chromosomes is revealed. These characteristics are of little use for the development of the intraspecific taxonomy of the sable, but can be useful in determining phylogenetic relationships at the species and generic levels, as well as to identify the consequences of natural hybridization of allied species in the genus Martes.