Supergenes promote ecological stasis in a keystone species

Structural variation can create supergene architectures through tight genomic linkages that maintain traits in favourable combinations. A new study by Sodeland et al. links such supergenes in Atlantic cod with species persistence over millennia, despite the fisheries induced decline in populations. This links intraspecific supergene diversity to ecological stasis, with significant consequences for ecosystem stability.

Automated summary

A new study reveals the presence of supergene structures in Atlantic cod that maintain favorable trait combinations and contribute to species persistence over millennia. This intrinsic supergene diversity is linked to ecological stasis and has significant implications for ecosystem stability.