Amphikaryon

/ˌæmfɪˈkæriən/ noun

Definition

A cell nucleus or organism containing genetic material from two different sources.

Etymology

From Ancient Greek 'amphi-' (both) + 'karyon' (nucleus/kernel). This biological term was coined in the late 19th century to describe hybrid nuclei in cytology.

Kelly Says

Amphikaryons sometimes occur when cells from two species fuse together—creating hybrid cells that might show traits from both parents, which scientists use to study how different species are genetically related.

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