autopolyploidy

Autopolyploidy is a type of polyploidy where an organism acquires one or more additional sets of chromosomes, all originating from a single species. This condition means the organism has three or more times the normal haploid number of chromosomes.12

Autopolyploids often arise from abnormal cell division, specifically mitosis, within a single individual. This doubling of chromosomes can lead to reproductive isolation from the diploid ancestors, effectively creating a new species. While autopolyploids can occur spontaneously, they are also sometimes intentionally produced through breeding techniques.1

Polyploidy is common in plants and has been a significant factor in the speciation of flowering plants (angiosperms). However, polyploidy is much rarer in animals, particularly in species with sex chromosomes, as it can disrupt the delicate balance required for proper sexual development.21