How do laboratory zebrafish strains diverge genetically from the typical wild-type populations?
Answer
They have been selectively bred or mutated to possess specific traits for research
While natural zebrafish populations primarily consist of the standard wild-type morphology, laboratory colonies represent a massive accumulation of genetic modification over many decades. Scientists actively select for or induce mutations to give the fish specific, desirable characteristics relevant to human biology, resulting in thousands of unique strains. For instance, some facilities specialize in maintaining lines carrying specific mutations related to cancer or cardiac defects, making genetic makeup an essential distinguishing factor between wild and captive fish.
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