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- Title
Highlight: Unmasking the Supergene Beneath the Ruff's Mating Strategies.
- Authors
McGrath, Casey
- Abstract
A recent study published in Molecular Biology & Evolution has shed light on the genetic basis of the ruff's (Calidris pugnax) unique mating strategies. The ruff is a sandpiper species known for its flamboyant territorial displays and distinct male phenotypes. These behaviors and differences in plumage are determined by a supergene, a cluster of genes that control complex traits. Surprisingly, the study found that the supergene underlying male mating strategy in the ruff has a low mutation load, challenging previous understanding of supergene evolution. The researchers propose two potential scenarios to explain this paradox: the recessive lethality of the supergene may be recent, or the supergene may have been introduced through hybridization with another species or subspecies. Further research is needed to understand the specific genes involved in the ruff's mating strategies.
- Subjects
BIOLOGICAL evolution; MOLECULAR evolution; RESEARCH personnel; GENE clusters; PHENOTYPES; FEMALES
- Publication
Molecular Biology & Evolution, 2023, Vol 40, Issue 12, p1
- ISSN
0737-4038
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1093/molbev/msad249