The formation of hybrid offspring or genetic combinations within a single organism or population, where different genetic varieties blend together through self-fertilization or interbreeding within the same species.
From auto- 'self' + hybridization (from Latin hybrida 'offspring of mixed parentage'). A modern genetics and plant breeding term that emerged in the 20th century.
Plant breeders use autohybridization to create supercrops—they basically let a plant breed with itself in clever ways to get the best traits doubled up. It's controlled genetic incest producing agricultural gold.
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