DNA BASE COMPOSITION OF SOME FREE-LIVING NEMATODE SPECIES

Abstract

The mean base compositions (% GC) of DNA samples from five free-living nematodes were determined by CsCl equilibrium buoyant-density centrifugation and thermal denaturation studies. Both methods gave similar results indicating that there is no extensive replacement of the usual bases in nematode DNA. From the ultracentrifugation studies the % GC content of the DNA of Caenorhabditis briggsae (Dougherty and Nigon, 1949) Dougherty, 1953, Turbatrix aceti (Müller, 1783) Peters, 1927, Rhabditis (Rhabditis) anomala Hertwig, 1922 (Dougherty 1955), Panagrellus redivivus (Linn, 1767) T. Goodey, 1945, and Panagrellus silusiae (de Man, 1913) T. Goodey, 1945 was 36, 40, 42, 44 and 44, respectively.The sample of DNA from T. aceti showed two distinct ultraviolet absorbing bands in a CsCl gradient. The band at 1.688 g/cm3 proved to be a polysaccharide. It gave a distinctive refractive index pattern when viewed with the schlieren optical system, was insensitive to DNase treatment and was removed by a-amylase treatment. On the other hand, the material banding at 1.699 g/cm3 was shown to be DNA. This band produced no disturbance in the refractive index gradient. It was not altered by a-amylase treatment, but it was DNase sensitive.Since P. redivivus and P. silusiae were found to have the same DNA base composition their ability to interbreed was examined. These two forms were cross-fertile and the offspring were fully fertile.