Bird Chromosomes

What drives rate variation in chromosome evolution? Jamie A lead; Kevin B also working on resubmission.

Status: active

Current hypothesis:

Rate variation in avian chromosome evolution is driven primarily by microchromosome dynamics: lineages retaining ancestral microchromosomes show lower rates of large-scale chromosomal change because microchromosomes function as recombination buffers, while lineages that have lost microchromosomes through fusion show elevated rearrangement rates. Variation in ZW differentiation is a secondary driver.

Next action:

Push Jamie Alfieri on resubmission; Heath to take over after MIRA renewal complete

Linked literature

• Cytogenetic Characterization of Red-Fronted Coot (Fulica rufifrons Philippi & Landbeck, 1861) and Giant Wood Rail (Aramides ypecaha Vieillot, 1819) (Rallidae) and Implications for Avian Karyotype Evolution
• Bridging methodological gaps in avian cytogenetics: comprehensive and optimized protocols for chromosomal preparation in birds
• A chromosome-level genome assembly of the Tristram’s Bunting (Emberiza tristrami)