Abstract:
Objective To study the issues related to evolution and classification of the genus Thuja L.
Method Using the methods of toot tip squash and staining, the karyological characteristics of five Thuja species were analyzed.
Result The karyotype formulas of T. sutchuenensis and T. standishii are 2n=2x=22=18m(2SAT)+4sm, while the karyotype formula of T. koraiensis, T. plicata and T. occidentalis are 2n=2x=22=20m(2SAT)+2sm, all belonging to 1A type.
Conclusion It seems that Thuja L. is in a progressive evolution status in the family Cupressaceae. The evolutional trend analysis suggest that T. sutchuenensis is the most advanced species, while T. koraiensis is perhaps the most primitive species in Thuja L.