Genomic architecture of phenotypic extremes in a wild cervid

Research on Anticosti Island's white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) has uncovered significant genetic differences linked to extreme antler and body size traits, offering new insights for conservation efforts. By analyzing high-depth whole genome re-sequencing data from pools of individuals representing phenotypic extremes, scientists identified divergent genomic windows with mean allele frequency differences of 14% for antler and 13% for body size. Genes associated with antler morphology showed enrichment in pathways related to cell death, protein metabolism, and oncogenic processes, while body size traits exhibited a more complex genetic architecture. These findings highlight the potential of genomics in understanding evolutionary pressures and guiding management strategies for this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Anderson, S. J., Côté, S. D., Richard, J. H., & Shafer, A. B. A. (2022). Genomic architecture of phenotypic extremes in a wild cervid. BMC Genomics, 23(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12864-022-08333-x