Cytogenetics of Two Kaempferia L. Species in Thailand

The chromosome numbers and karyotype analyses of Kaempferia laotica Gapnep and K. rotunda L. belonging to family Zingiberaceae in Thailand were studied from root tips. The results show that the chromosome number of Kaempferia laotica and K. rotunda was found the same numbers to be 2n = 22 and the different karyotype formula with different in position of satellite chromosome has been found in 14m + 4sm + 4st (and one visible satellite chromosome) and 12m + 10sm (and one visible satellite chromosome), respectively. Therefore, chromosome structure, karyotype formula and satellite chromosomes can be used for classification in each species. The satellite chromosomes of both species are the first time reported. The karyotype of K. laotica was studied for the first time.