Definition

Describing a condition where the number of chromosomes is not a whole multiple of the basic set for a species.

Example

The study focused on heteroploid cells to understand their role in genetic variation.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new plant species they discovered?

Yeah, I read that it’s heteroploid, which is really interesting.

I wonder how that affects its growth and reproduction.

Definitely! It could lead to some unique adaptations.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heteroploid → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "ploid" (from Greek "ploides", meaning fold or layer). The word describes a condition involving different numbers of chromosome sets, hence indicating a variation in chromosome number.

Memory Tip

Think of 'different' ('hetero-') layers or sets ('ploid') of chromosomes — that's what heteroploid means.

Visually Confused Words