Genomes reveal marked differences in the adaptive evolution between orangutan species

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary biology
• Genomics
• Primatology

Background:

• Understanding adaptive evolution in great apes is crucial for conservation.
• Limited knowledge exists on orangutan adaptive evolution to environmental variations.
• This study investigates adaptive responses in critically endangered orangutans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate adaptive evolution in Sumatran (Pongo abelii) and Bornean (P. pygmaeus) orangutans.
• To identify genetic adaptations to distinct environmental differences during the Pleistocene.
• To integrate demographic history with adaptive evolution in orangutans.

Main Methods:

• Whole-genome sequencing data from orangutans.
• Analysis of demographic histories and environmental differences.
• Application of multiple tests for positive selection.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in adaptive evolution between Sumatran and Bornean orangutans.
• Sumatran orangutans show selection on genes related to brain development and glucose metabolism.
• Bornean orangutans exhibit selection on genes involved in lipid metabolism and muscle activity.

Conclusions:

• Distinct environmental pressures drove divergent adaptive evolution in orangutan species.
• Sumatran orangutan adaptations align with cognitive and social differences.
• Bornean orangutan adaptations suggest physiological responses to resource variability.