Genomic Insights Into the Molecular Basis of Sexual Selection in Birds

Sexual selection is a well-known biological process, yet the genomic basis and patterns of sexual are not fully understood. The extravagant ornamental plumage peacock ( Pavo cristatus ) was instrumental in shaping Charles Darwin's theory considered to be an honest signal its immunocompetence. Here, we used recently generated draft genome sequence peafowl carried out comparative analysis across 11 bird genomes that encompass range also had high-quality phenotypic data publically available study selection. We found varying degree purifying predominant mechanism action for at genome-wide scale observed mostly influences genes regulating gene expression protein processing. Specifically, phylogenetically corrected regression supported continuous or ongoing model Genes involved nucleic acid binding regulation, including specific regulator sex-determination known as TRA2A under positive species with high post-copulatory manifested sperm competition. detected feather-related immune-related gene-pairs evolving similar pressures species, ), which consistent Hamilton-Zuk hypothesis. genomics avian taxa has provided new insights on molecular underpinnings identifies regions future in-depth analysis.