Cytogenetic variation in farmed stock of Dybowski's sika deer.

The chromosome constitution of Dybowski's sika deer was studied on the basis of 15 samples obtained from farmed stock maintained in an enclosure. The diploid chromosome number was 2n=68, 2n=67 and 2n=66. The constitutive heterochromatin (C-bands) was located in the centromeric regions of all acrocentric chromosomes. Metacentric chromosomes were C-negative. Chromosomes of three pairs proved to be NORs carriers. The size polymorphism of silver deposits was identified in two animals. A cytogenetic analysis indicated that the farmed stock of Dybowski's sika deer demonstrates considerable variation. The chromosome polymorphism observed may be a valuable marker for the management and preservation of this species.