Cytogenetic analysis reveals a 2n=44 karyotype with typical cetacean C-banding in a female blue whale, indicating strong chromosomal conservation across cetaceans.
Key Points
To determine the diploid chromosome number, sex chromosome configuration, and C-banding patterns in a free-swimming blue whale.
Established an in vitro fibroblast cell culture from a skin biopsy collected from a free-swimming blue whale.
Performed cytogenetic analyses using conventional staining and C-banding techniques to examine chromosomal structure.
Determined a diploid chromosome number of 2n=44 and confirmed the specimen was female.
Observed a C-band distribution consistent with other cetaceans, characterized by prominent interstitial and terminal bands rather than centromeric bands.