Genomic analysis showed enrichment for adaptations related to what environmental factors in the Northern Hoiho subspecies (M. a. murihiku)?
Answer
Temperature stimulus, cold, nutrient levels, and salt stress.
The genomic profile of the Northern subspecies, identified as M. a. murihiku, reflects thousands of years of adaptation specifically tuned to the challenges of the mainland South Island/Rakiura coastal environment. The analysis indicated a genomic enrichment for adaptations related to temperature stimulus, dealing with cold conditions, managing varying nutrient levels, and coping with salt stress. These specialized traits optimized the lineage for survival in that specific, perhaps harsher, environment, but this specialization may have come at the cost of a less broad immunological defense, potentially making them highly susceptible to novel threats like the YPGV.
Related Questions
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