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haploid

1 of 2noun
/ˈhæplɔɪd/
Forms:haploids
1

a cell or organism containing a single set of unpaired chromosomes, typically denoted as n, representing half the genetic material of a diploid cell

  • Gametes, such as sperm and egg cells, are haploids that fuse during fertilization to form a diploid zygote.
  • Haploids are crucial in sexual reproduction for maintaining the chromosome number across generations.
  • Researchers are studying haploids to understand genetic variability and inheritance patterns.
  • The haploid stage occurs in the life cycle of many plants and algae before fertilization.
  • In certain organisms, such as fungi, haploids can undergo meiosis to produce haploid spores.