Satellite DNA Sequences in the Red Kangaroo (Macropus rufus)

Abstract

There is a complex pattern of satellite DNA sequences in M. rufus which are revealed by addition of Ag+ or dye (Hoechst 33258) to the DNA in CS2S04 or CsCI equilibrium density gradients. Six satellite DNA fractions have been isolated; these have buoyant densities in neutral CsCI of 1· 692, 1· 704, 1· 705, 1· 707 (two), 1· 710 and 1· 712 gjml compared with 1· 696 g/ml for the main band DNA. Each satellite accounts for 1-3 % of the DNA of the genome.