The Mighty Genome: South American Lungfish's Ancient Legacy

The South American lungfish, a living fossil inhabiting slow-moving waters in several South American countries, has the largest genome of any known animal. Scientists have sequenced its genome, revealing it to be 30 times larger than the human genome. The species provides insights into vertebrate evolution and the transition from water to land.

The South American lungfish, which inhabits slow-moving waters in countries like Brazil and Argentina, has the largest genome known among animals.

Scientists have sequenced this extraordinary genome, finding it to be approximately 30 times the size of the human genetic blueprint.

The lungfish provides critical insights into the evolution of vertebrates from water to land, holding clues about limb development.

(With inputs from agencies.)