Scientists link bird flight style to faster genome evolution, and the biggest shifts appear in DNA deletions, not every mutation type
Bird flight styles significantly impact genome evolution, a new study reveals. High-energy flight demands accelerate DNA deletion rates over other mutations. This genetic pruning helps birds maintain efficient, compact genomes for survival. The study analyzed over 363 avian genomes for empirical evidence. These findings connect aerial movement, metabolism, and genomic tempo.
Bird flight styles significantly impact genome evolution, a new study reveals. High-energy flight demands accelerate DNA deletion rates over other mutations. This genetic pruning helps birds maintain efficient, compact genomes for survival. The study analyzed over 363 avian genomes for empirical evidence. These findings connect aerial movement, metabolism, and genomic tempo.
