Exploring Climate Adaptation in European Merino Sheep: A Landscape Genomics Approach

This study explores the genetic basis of environmental adaptation in 24 European Merino sheep populations using landscape genomics. By analyzing 38,381 SNPs from 736 animals against 19 bioclimatic variables, researchers identified 168 outlier SNPs and 232 genes linked to climate adaptation, particularly focusing on 'isothermality'. Chromosomes 1 and 14 showed significant genomic associations. Key genes such as STAT1, COL11A1, and COL6A3 were highlighted for their roles in thermoregulation, hair follicle development, and high-altitude adaptation, indicating their potential involvement in environmental adaptation.