Published 1967-01-01
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to learn something of taxonomic identification, especially the techniques involved in the determination of chromosome counts and karyotypes of mammalian species, specifically, Spermophilus armatus, the ground squirrel, and a vole, tentatively identified as Microtus montanus. Since it is often difficult to make identification on the basis of morphology alone, karyotyping and chromosones count become increasingly important in taxonomy. Techniques detailed in this report include trapping, slide preparation, slide staining, photography, karyotyping, and Basic Number (N.F.). After preparing and studying chromosome slides of S. armatus, the methods of chromosome preparation and study were utilized to identify tentatively M. montanus.