In addition to the essential set of chromosomes, individuals can carry supernumerary chromosomes that are not required for normal growth, development, or reproduction. Collectively, these extra chromosomes are called B chromosomes, and modern advances in genomic and cytological technology have accelerated our understanding of their fascinating biology. Here, we provide a brief history of B chromosome research, followed by an examination of their formation and dynamics. We conclude with an outlook on what the novel biology of B chromosomes can teach us and how it can be exploited as important tools for biotechnology, agriculture, and the advancement of human health.
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Samuelson et al. (2026) studied this question.
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