In autopolyploid species, as a result of the polyploidy of gametes themselves, there is

a tendency toward an association between parental homologous genes. In this book,

the consequences of such a particularity are described at different levels : population

genetics (including effect of natural selection), quantitative genetics (including QTL

detection), plant breeding methods (including marker-assisted selection) and varietal

development. Theoretical developments mainly focus on autotetraploids though

many results refer to an arbitrary ploidy level, diploidy becoming a specific case.

Concepts in population genetics and quantitative genetics are redefined

and differences with diploidy are underlined. The case of induced tetraploids

is addressed throughout the different chapters.

This book is intended for researchers, lecturers and students faced with problems

of population genetics, quantitative genetics and breeding methods

of autopolyploids. It will provide them with a definition of the major concepts

adapted to an arbitrary ploidy level. Plant breeders working on natural or induced

autopolyploids will also find here the elements required to implement the best

selection and varietal development methods.