Varanus komodoensis, the Komodo dragon, is the largest living lizard, capable of taking down prey much larger than itself. Its genome reveals adaptations for a powerful cardiovascular system, heightened metabolism, and a robust immune response, resembling traits typically seen in mammals. DOI: 10.1038/s41559-019-0945-8 Author: Asier Otal
Capybara
Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris, the capybara, is the largest living rodent and is highly social, often found in groups near water bodies in South America. Its genome reveals adaptations to a semi-aquatic lifestyle and unique mechanisms of cancer resistance despite its large body size. DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evaa157 Author: Amelie
Snow leopard
Panthera uncia, the snow leopard, is a solitary and elusive big cat adapted to cold mountainous regions, with thick fur, powerful limbs, and a long tail that aids in balance. Its genome reveals adaptations to high-altitude environments, such as genes related to oxygen transport and energy metabolism, as well as evolutionary links to other big…
European shrew
Sorex araneus, the European shrew, is a small, insectivorous mammal known for its high metabolism, venomous saliva, territorial aggression and seasonal skull shrinkage. Its genome is notable for an unusually high rate of chromosomal rearrangements. DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03451-0 Author: Jayden Rubio (IES Domènec Perramon)
Mexican Wolf
Canis lupus baileyi, the Mexican gray wolf, is the smallest subspecies of the gray wolf, known for its mottled coat, social pack behavior, and role as a top predator in its ecosystem. Its genome reveals low genetic diversity due to a severe population bottleneck, but also contains unique adaptations that reflect its historical range and…
Java mouse-deer
Tragulus javanicus, the Java mouse-deer, is one of the smallest hoofed mammals, standing only about 20 cm tall. It is shy and nocturnal, inhabiting dense forests of Java. Its genome sheds light on ruminant evolution and the genetic basis of miniaturization in ungulates. DOI: 10.1126/science.aav6202 Author: Naira Mahajan (Institut Angeleta Ferrer i Sensat)
Mandarin duck
Aix galericulata is a perching duck species. This means it is adapted to roost and nest in trees, especially in wooded wetlands. It is known for its strong sexual dimorphism, with males displaying brightly colored plumage during the breeding season. It is a model species for studying mating behavior and habitat adaptation in waterfowl. Author:…
Giant manta
The Mobula birostris is the largest species of ray in the world, reaching up to 7 meters wide—yet it feeds on tiny plankton filtered through its gills! These gentle giants can even leap out of the water, a behavior scientists still don’t fully understand. DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03451-0 Author: Anna Landabaso
Aldabra giant tortoise
Aldabrachelys gigantea, the Aldabra giant tortoise, is one of the longest-lived terrestrial vertebrates, with lifespans over 150 years. It can survive months without food or water by storing nutrients and slowing its metabolism. Its genome offers insights into longevity, gigantism, and resilience in extreme conditions. DOI: 10.1093/gigascience/giac090 Author: Abril Navarro (Institut Pompeu Fabra)
Y. lipolytica
Yarrowia lipolytica is a dimorphic yeast. This means we can find it in its yeast form or a filamentous form. It’s a model organism for its genus and it has a very high resilience to extreme environmental conditions. DOI: 10.1038/nature02579 (Jul 01, 2004) Author: Rita Chacón Sahún