heterosis

Definition

The phenomenon where the offspring of genetically diverse parents exhibit superior traits, such as increased growth, fertility, or hardiness, compared to their parents.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek word 'heterosis', meaning 'alteration' or 'change', combined with the suffix '-osis'. It was coined by American geneticist George Shull in 1914 to describe the increased vigor observed in crossbred organisms.

In the news

The article uses heterosis to explain how hybridization can lead to improved fitness in offspring, highlighting its role in the success of hybrid populations.

Genetics and genomics of hybridization

Nature

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