FIXATIVES

In general, fixed material can be stored at 4°C for several months. The following combinations are most commonly used to study plant chromosomes:

Carnoy's solution I (Farmer's solution)

Carnoy's I is the most commonly used fixative and gives good results for a large number of different species and tissues.

• 1 part glacial acetic acid
• 3 parts 95% or absolute (100%) ethanol

Carnoy's solution II

Carnoy's II is recommended for oily and waxy tissues to increase the penetration ability of the fixative.

• 1 part glacial acetic acid
• 3 parts chloroform
• 6 parts 95% or absolute (100%) ethanol

Propionic acid–ethanol solution

This fixative is recommended especially for species with small chromosomes.

• 1 part propionic acid
• 3 parts 95% or absolute (100%) ethanol