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
