The chromososmes and neutrophil nuclear appendages of Hippopotamus amphibius Linnaeus 1758

Abstract

The number of chromosomes of the hippopotamus is 2n = 36. Their morphology and grouping are shown in a karyogram. Sex determination is based on the x-y mechanism. Nuclear sexing on the appearance of neutrophil nuclear appendages is clearly defined owing to the presence of numerous drumsticks in females and their absence in males. The differentiation is further enhanced by the presence of peculiar vesicular appendages especially in neutrophils of males, although the possibility that their formation may be due to changes occurring during death, is not excluded.