South American Lungfish Boasts Record-Breaking Genome: A Modern-Day Living Fossil

The South American lungfish, an ancient freshwater species inhabiting South America, holds the record for the largest genome of any animal. Scientists have sequenced its genome, revealing it to be 30 times the size of the human genome. Additionally, a philanthropic group backed by Mike Bloomberg and utilizing NASA technology is launching a satellite to track methane leaks.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Updated: 18-08-2024 02:29 IST | Created: 18-08-2024 02:29 IST
South American Lungfish Boasts Record-Breaking Genome: A Modern-Day Living Fossil
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In an unparalleled scientific discovery, researchers have sequenced the genome of the South American lungfish, revealing it as the largest known genome in any animal species.

Hailing from stagnant waters across Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, French Guiana, and Paraguay, this ''living fossil'' presents an impressive genetic blueprint about 30 times the size of a human's.

Simultaneously, a coalition supported by NASA and philanthropist Mike Bloomberg is set to launch the first methane-detecting satellite, marking a significant step in tracking and combating planetary methane emissions.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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