Question

What does polyploidy refer to?

1) Instances in which there are more than two haploid sets of chromosomes in an individual cell
2) Cases of polyploidy in which the chromosomes in the individual originate from the same species
3) Instances in which the chromosomes originate from the hybridization of two different species, usually closely related
4) None of the above

Answer 1

Polyploidy is the condition of having more than two complete chromosome sets. It occurs as autopolyploidy within the same species due to meiosis errors, or as allopolyploidy from the combination of different species, and is common in plants.

Step-by-step explanation:

Polyploidy refers to a condition in cells or organisms where there are more than two complete sets of chromosomes. In autopolyploidy, the individual has multiple sets of chromosomes from their own species, which occurs due to an error in meiosis where chromosomes do not separate into separate cells as they should.

In contrast, allopolyploidy results from the reproductive combination of two different species, leading to offspring with complete sets of chromosomes from each species. Polyploidy is particularly common in plants and tends to result in larger and more robust individuals than those with the normal number of chromosome sets.