The chromosome numbers of Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv

The somatic chromosome number of Panax vietnamensis Ha et Grushv. was determined to be 2n = 24, based on the hypotonic shock method by potassium chloride solution. In this study, we investigated the effect of potassium chloride and colchicine solutions on chromosome dispersion of Panax vietnamensis at different concentrations. The treatment using 0.2% KCl solution in 45 minutes combined with 0.05% colchicine solution in 2 hours subsequently resulted in proper hypotonia. The result showed that chromosomes were evenly dispersed. The hypotonic shock method seemed to be effective in equally distributing chromosomes. The result can be applied in cell genetic studies and selective breeding programs for Panax vietnamensis.