Which amphibian has the largest known genome?
Quick Answer
Some salamanders, especially the axolotl and lungless salamanders, have enormous genomes. The axolotl’s genome is famously huge at about 32 gigabases.
The Full Story
Amphibians include some of the largest genomes known in the animal kingdom, and the axolotl, Ambystoma mexicanum, is a famous example. Its genome is about 32 gigabases, far larger than the human genome at roughly 3.2 gigabases. Large genome size is common in salamanders and is one reason they are important in genetic research. The axolotl is especially famous because it can regenerate limbs and other tissues, making it a scientific model species as well as a biological oddity.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"The amphibian with a genome ten times bigger than ours"
Was this answer helpful?
Tap a reaction — it helps us pick what to cover next.