The most extensive collection of cetacean genetic data to date has enabled researchers to explore the remarkable evolution of baleen whales. A recent study looks into the essential genetic changes among these varied whale species populating the planet’s oceans, providing new perspectives on their chances for survival amid various challenges.
The most extensive collection of cetacean genetic data to date has allowed scientists at Flinders University to thoroughly investigate the remarkable evolution of baleen whales.
This research, featured in the international journal Gene, examines the vital genetic adaptations of various whale species found in oceans worldwide, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities they face for survival.
“We actually know very little about the genetic diversity of modern whales compared to land animals, so these findings offer new insights into their evolution and changes over the last 50 million years,” explains PhD candidate Gabrielle Genty from the College of Science and Engineering at Flinders University.
The study delves into the fascinating characteristics of these mammals — from the enormous sizes of blue and fin whales to the impressive diving and migratory skills of other baleen whales like humpbacks, minkes, and gray whales.
While the research highlights genes related to survival, longevity, mobility, immunity, and reproduction, scientists believe that further adaptations will be necessary to counteract climate change and other dangers such as marine pollution and diseases.
“For instance, we discovered that genes enhancing immunity are crucial for the largest species, including fin whales and the immense blue whale,” says Ms. Genty, associated with the Flinders Cetacean Ecology, Behaviour and Evolution Lab (CEBEL) and the Molecular Ecology Lab at Flinders University (MELFU).
“These additional immune-related adaptations might allow these species to grow larger while avoiding serious health issues like tumors and cancer, which often accompany increased body size and rapid cell division.”
The research utilized a dataset comprising 10,159 genes from 15 cetacean species, as well as two land species — hippos and cows (Hippopotamus amphibius and Bos taurus) — which are recognized as whales’ closest terrestrial relatives.
Studying baleen whales poses significant challenges due to their wide-ranging and migratory nature.
Senior coauthor, Flinders University Associate Professor Luciana Möller, notes that cetaceans (whales, dolphins, and porpoises) have evolved into numerous groups since their ancestors transitioned from land to water.
This evolution has resulted in at least 89 primary species, categorized into two main suborders: 74 in Odontoceti (toothed whales, dolphins, and porpoises) and 15 in Mysticeti (baleen whales), which utilize baleen plates for filter feeding.
