Galápagos giant daisies repeatedly evolve heat-tolerant leaves via different genes
Researchers have shown that the giant daisies of the Galápagos Islands have independently developed similar heat-resistant leaf shapes, each time using distinct genetic pathways.
Scientists from institutions including the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew sequenced the complete genomes of every Scalesia species, the giant daisies endemic to the Galápagos. Their analysis revealed that the characteristic deeply lobed, heat-dissipating leaves have evolved repeatedly in separate lineages, but each time through a different combination of genes within a shared developmental system.
This provides a clear example of parallel evolution, where similar traits arise independently via distinct genetic routes. Moreover, substantial genetic differences were detected among isolated island populations, indicating that speciation may be ongoing. The authors argue that each distinct population should be treated as its own conservation unit to preserve the islands' unique biodiversity. The findings, published in Nature Communications, deepen understanding of adaptive radiation and the flexibility of evolutionary processes.
Why it matters
The study shows how species can rapidly adapt to climate stress, informing conservation of vulnerable island ecosystems.
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