Which species is commonly used as a reference point when identifying regions of the yak genome under strong positive selection?
Answer
*Bos taurus* (domestic cattle).
Modern genomic sequencing technologies allow researchers to compare the yak genome against that of other bovids to pinpoint evolutionary changes. When researchers seek to identify specific genetic regions that have undergone rapid adaptation in yaks—particularly those related to high-altitude survival, metabolic efficiency, and low-temperature adaptation—they frequently use the genome of *Bos taurus*, the domestic cattle, as the baseline comparison. This contrast highlights the specific genetic signatures that were strongly favored by natural selection in the yak lineage, resulting in substantial genomic differences between the two closely related groups.
Related Questions
What critical physiological trait allows yaks to scavenge oxygen efficiently in thin air?When was evidence suggesting the creation of a "super yak" through early selective breeding estimated to occur?How does the wild yak (*Bos mutus*) differ physically from its domesticated relative (*Bos grunniens*)?Relative to domestic cattle, what key anatomical feature characterizes the yak respiratory system for high-altitude survival?Beyond providing milk, meat, and fiber, what essential resource do yaks supply to pastoralists in treeless regions?Which species is commonly used as a reference point when identifying regions of the yak genome under strong positive selection?What primarily drove the explosion of diversity seen in coat color, size variation, and temperament in modern yak herds?What rough timeframe is cited for the genetic split between the wild yak lineage and the domestic yak lineage?What term is used to describe the hybrid offspring resulting from the interaction between domestic yaks and cattle?What traits were favored in early domestic yaks through artificial selection, contrasting with natural selection on wild yaks?