A Cytogenetic Review of Chromosomal Diversity and Karyotype Variation in Endemic Plants of El-Jabal El-Akhdar, Libya

Abstract

The El-Jabal El-Akhdar region in northeastern Libya constitutes one of the most important centers of plant endemism within the country; however, cytogenetic information on its flora remains scarce. This review compiles available data on chromosome numbers and karyotype characteristics for 61 endemic taxa (54 species and 7 subspecies) belonging to 48 genera and 28 families, based on previously published studies and chromosme information documented in IPCN database. Somatic chromosome numbers have been reported for only (17/61≈27.87%) of these taxa, varying from 2n = 8 to 2n = 96, with diploidy representing the most common ploidy level (14.75%). Available karyotype studies indicate considerable variation in ploidy levels, karyotype symmetry and asymmetry, chromosome size, and the occurrence of satellite chromosomes. Marked chromosomal differences among closely related species highlight the value of karyotype data in plant taxonomy. Nevertheless, the majority of endemic taxa remain cytogenetically unexplored, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive cytogenetic investigations to clarify evolutionary relationships and to support effective conservation strategies.