The haploid chromosome set of Norway spruce consists of 12 chromosomes. Most of the chromosomes are very similar in their morphology (length, arm ratio, secondary constriction). For the CGBI it is necessery to recognize all chromosomes. Therefore we used different banding methods to solve this problem. We used the root meristem and the dividing cells of the macrogametophyte as test objects. We discussed morphology of chromosomes of these two different dividing tissues. The use of image analysis equipment made it possible to get in a relatively short time a great number of data for statistical analysis. Another method was, to use an expert-system for data analysis. Finally 3-D models of interphase nuclei were reconstructed.

A plant test system by the classification of chromosome aberration in the root tip meristems of young spruce plants (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) has been used to study the environmental influence on the genetic material of trees at natural sites and under defined conditions of greenhouses and open-top chambers. All our results suggest that this plant test system is a valuable tool in environmental monitoring.