Molecular cytogenetics and its application to major flowering ornamental crops

Cytogenetic research can provide valuable information regarding breeding, genetics, bioinformatics, genomics, and the taxonomy of plants. Every year, new varieties of flowering ornamental crops are being produced all over the world. In order to perform efficient breeding, chromosome studies are first conducted. The data obtained from these studies lead to a systematic and less costly crossbreeding. Various techniques, such as FISH (Fluorescent in situ Hybridization) and GISH (Genomic in situ Hybridization), have been used for cytogenetic studies. These methods are used for the identification of ploidy level, construction of an accurate karyotype, and evaluation of hybridity in ornamental crops. Major flowering ornamental crops are economically important for use as cut flowers or as potted plants all over the world and are highly valuable in cytogenetic research. In this article, we have summarized basic theories and principles employed in molecular cytogenetics, including its history in floriculture, and its application to the breeding of major flowering ornamental crops, such as lily, rose, orchid, and chrysanthemum. In addition, the key results of chromosome studies on the aforementioned flowering ornamental plants are also discussed.