autopolyploidiaan

Autopolyploidy refers to a condition where an organism has more than two complete sets of chromosomes, all derived from the same species. This means that an individual with autopolyploidy possesses three, four, or even more copies of each chromosome, but all these copies originate from its own ancestral lineage. It is a form of polyploidy, which is a general term for having multiple sets of chromosomes. Autopolyploidy arises through errors during cell division, specifically during meiosis or mitosis, which lead to a failure in the separation of homologous chromosomes or sister chromatids. This results in gametes (sperm or egg cells) with a doubled set of chromosomes, or somatic cells that are polyploid. If such a doubled gamete successfully fuses with a normal gamete, or if a polyploid somatic cell contributes to reproduction, offspring with autopolyploid characteristics can result. In plants, autopolyploidy is relatively common and has played a significant role in the evolution of many species, often leading to larger fruits, flowers, or increased vigor. In animals, autopolyploidy is much rarer, though it does occur in some invertebrates and fish. The presence of multiple chromosome sets can affect gene expression and organismal traits, sometimes leading to novel phenotypes.