Which historical classification placed the yak in a separate genus or subgenus due to its physiological distance from lowland cattle?
Answer
*Poephagus*
Due to the substantial genetic and physiological divergence yaks exhibit compared to typical lowland cattle, some historical taxonomic treatments elected to place the yak in a separate genus or subgenus designated as *Poephagus*. Although *Bos grunniens* is the prevailing species name today, the continued mention of *Poephagus* in certain contexts acknowledges these significant biological distinctions. For instance, yaks possess crucial adaptations like larger lungs and hearts, and maintain fetal hemoglobin, which differentiate them starkly from *Bos taurus*.
Related Questions
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