The chromosome number varies incredibly across different organisms! The diploid chromosome number of chicken is 78 where as humans is 46.
Smallest chromosome number in animals is jack jumper ant with 2 chromosomes in females and males are haploid with one chromosomes.
Chromosome number and complexity of organisms?
- There is no correlation between chromosome number and complexity of an organism. For example, humans have less than half the chromosomes of dogs, but we are considered more complex organisms.
- The arrangement of genes on chromosomes also plays a significant role in organismal development and function.
- Any change in chromosome number can lead to genetic disorders.
Animals:
- Humans: 46 (23 pairs)
- Fruit fly: 8 (4 pairs)
- Dog: 78 (39 pairs)
- Earthworm: 36 (18 pairs)
- Chicken: 78 (39 pairs)
- Indian muntjac: 6 Muntiacus muntjak lowest diploid chromosomal number in mammals
- Atlas blue butterfly: Polyommatus atlantica highest number of chromosomes in the
Plants:
- Maize: 20 (10 pairs)
- Rice: 12 (12 pairs)
- Potato: 48 (24 pairs)
- Tomato: 24 (12 pairs)
- Pea: 14 (7 pairs)
Microorganisms:
- Bacteria: Typically 1-2 circular chromosomes
- Yeast: 16 chromosomes
