Introgression
/ˌɪntrəˈɡrɛʃən/
Definition
Introgression refers to the movement of genes from one plant species or population into another through repeated hybridization and backcrossing. It is a biological concept in genetics and evolution, describing the stable incorporation of inherited DNA after hybrids mate again with one parent group. Unlike a one-time hybrid cross, introgression leaves specific genes or traits, such as disease resistance, established within the recipient population.
Role in Plant Biology
- Wild genes in crop breeding: In plant breeding, introgression can move useful traits from wild relatives into crops, such as disease resistance, stress tolerance, or improved adaptation, while repeated backcrossing helps keep most of the crop’s original characteristics.
- Hybridization followed by backcrossing: This pattern depends on hybrids being able to reproduce with one parent species or population. As a result, some genes cross species boundaries even when the two groups remain mostly distinct.
- Effects on classification: Gene flow of this kind can blur species limits and make plant identification harder. It may also cause different parts of the genome to suggest different evolutionary relationships.
- Source of adaptive variation: In natural plant populations, introgression can introduce gene variants that improve survival under local conditions. That added variation may support adaptation to pests, climate, soils, or other environmental pressures.
Related Terms
Hybridization
Hybridization is the crossing of two genetically distinct plants, usually within the same species or between closely…
Hybrid
Hybrid describes a plant produced by crossing two genetically distinct parents, usually different species, subspecies…
Genotype
Genotype refers to a plant’s genetic makeup, the set of genes and gene variants it carries in its cells. It is a…
Species
Species is a biological concept and the basic unit of classification below genus. In plants, it refers to a group of…
Subspecies
Subspecies are a taxonomic rank in botany below species. They identify naturally occurring plant populations within a…
Fertilization
Fertilization in plants refers to the biological process in which a male gamete from pollen fuses with a female gamete…