ABSTRACT
The structure, karyotype and behavior of synaptonemal complex (SC) in the spermatocytes of hedgehog (Erinaceus euroaaus dealbatus (insectivora)) were analyzed by light and electron microscopy with a modified surface spread preparation which involves the use of sodium dodecyl-sulphate (SDS) and silver staining. The lateral elements of the synaptonemal complex have a constant width of about 50 nm, the distance between the two lateral elements is about 100 nm. The relative length and arm rationale constant for each autosomal SC. The relative length and arm ratio constant for ea of the autosomal SCs are very similar to that of mitotic autosome.The X and Y chromosome axes have a clear morphological distinction from the autosomal SC. The axes of X and Y chromosome pair and form a SC of certain length at pachytene stage. The axes of unpaired X and Y chromosome are heteropycnotic and display various morphological complexities. But these differentiations in hedgehog are primary than in other mammalians, such as human and mice. At pachytene stage the X and Y chromosome display an extensive side-by-side pairing segment with decreasing length as meiotic prophase progressed.