Large-scale ruminant genome sequencing provides insights into their evolution and distinct traits

Phylogeny and characteristics of ruminants Ruminants are a diverse group of mammals that includes families containing well-known taxa such as deer, cows, and goats. However, their evolutionary relationships have been contentious, as have the origins of their distinctive digestive systems and headgear, including antlers and horns (see the Perspective by Ker and Yang). To understand the relationships among ruminants, L. Chen et al. sequenced 44 species representing 6 families and performed a phylogenetic analysis. From this analysis, they were able to resolve the phylogeny of many genera and document incomplete lineage sorting among major clades. Interestingly, they found evidence for large population reductions…

• NN
  National Natural Science Foundation of China

  Awards: 31501984, 31822052
• FR
  Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities

  Award: 3102019JC007
• NP
  National Program for Support of Top-notch Young Professionals