A nucleus or individual having twice the haploid number of chromosomes in the nuclei of its somatic cells. In many lower plants and about 50% of flowering plants, diploidy is established at fertilization by the union of two haploid gametes, each containing a single set of chromosomes from its respective parent. The symbol 2« is used to denote the diploid number. Diploid plants usually have between 12 and 26 chromosomes in their nuclei. If they contain more than this then it is likely they are * polyploid in origin. |
