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Adaptive evolution of multiple traits through multiple mutations at a single gene.

Catherine R Linnen1, Yu-Ping Poh, Brant K Peterson

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Deer mice evolved lighter coats for camouflage in the Nebraska Sand Hills, driven by natural selection. This adaptation involves multiple mutations within the Agouti gene, minimizing harmful side effects and promoting local adaptation.

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Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary biology
  • Genetics
  • Animal coloration

Background:

  • Adaptive phenotypic change is driven by precise mutations.
  • Understanding these mutations is key to evolutionary mechanisms.
  • Coat color variation in deer mice is linked to their environment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the genetic basis of light coat color in deer mice.
  • To determine the selective advantage of light coloration against predators.
  • To understand how multiple mutations contribute to local adaptation.

Main Methods:

  • Field studies using plasticine models to assess predation.
  • Analysis of color variation in an admixed deer mouse population.
  • Identification of genetic regions within the Agouti locus associated with coat color traits.

Main Results:

  • Light coat color provides a significant selective advantage against visually hunting predators.
  • The light Sand Hills phenotype is composed of multiple distinct traits.
  • Independent selection on multiple mutations within the Agouti locus drives local adaptation.

Conclusions:

  • Local adaptation in deer mice is a result of independent selection on multiple mutations within the Agouti locus.
  • Each mutation has a specific effect on an adaptive phenotype, minimizing pleiotropic consequences.
  • This mechanism allows for adaptation without significant trade-offs.