What characterizes autoploidy that results from mitosis?

Autopolyploidy is a form of polyploidy that occurs when an organism has more than two sets of chromosomes, all of which come from a single species. The correct answer highlights a critical aspect of this process: autoploidy that results from mitosis leads to the formation of a tetraploid cell without further cell division. During this process, the cell undergoes a failure in cytokinesis after duplicating its chromosomes, resulting in a cell that has four sets of chromosomes (tetraploid) rather than dividing into separate daughter cells.

This method of generating polyploid cells is important because it contributes to the genetic diversity and adaptability of certain plant species, allowing for the potential of new traits and increased size or vigor. In this context, the tetraploid can then give rise to gametes that are diploid, but the immediate characteristic of the process itself is the production of a tetraploid cell. This distinguishes it from other outcomes associated with polyploidy where proper cellular division occurs, such as haploid gamete production or the establishment of triploid organisms.