First Cytogenetic Analysis of Eratigena agrestris (Araneae: Agelenidae) from Turkey

In this study, chromosomal characteristics of Eratigena agrestris (Agelenidae) were investigated for the first time. Karyotype features including diploid chromosome number, sex chromosome system, chromosome morphology, and meiotic behavior were obtained from specimens collected in two localities of Mediterranean region. A spreading method including dissection, hypotonization, fixation, and staining was used to prepare the chromosome slides. In a total, 10 adult males were used due to having high numbers of dividing cells. Cytogenetical results showed that the diploid chromosome number and sex chromosome system was 2n♂ = 42 (X₁X₂0). The sex chromosomes were identified tentatively. All chromosomes were telocentric. Relative chromosome lengths of autosomal pairs ranged between 5.65 and 3.32%, and relative chromosome lengths of X₁ and X₂ were 5.33 and 4.19%, respectively. In the first meiotic division stages, bivalents usually had one chiasma, but some had two chiasmata. At the end of the meiosis, two kinds of nuclei, with or without sex chromosomes, have occurred. These results contribute to a better characterization of the Agelenidae cytogenetic.