Species groups distributed across elevational gradients reveal convergent and continuous genetic adaptation to high elevations

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1813593115
• Publication Date: 2018-10-22T19:15:36Z
• Authors: Yan-Bo Sun; Ting-Ting Fu; Jie-Qiong Jin; Robert W. Murphy; David M. Hillis; Ya-Ping Zhang; Jing Che
• Keywords: Cladogenesis; Convergent evolution; Elevation (ballistics); Local adaptation

Although many cases of genetic adaptations to high elevations have been reported, the processes driving these modifications and pace their evolution remain unclear. Many high-elevation (HEAs) are thought arisen in situ as populations rose with growing mountains. In contrast, most lineages Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau appear colonized from low-elevation areas. These provide an opportunity for studying recent HEAs comparing them ancestral alternatives. Herein, we compare four frogs (three species Nanorana a close lowland relative) lizards (Phrynocephalus) that inhabit range on or along slopes Plateau. The sequential cladogenesis across elevational gradient allows us examine gradual accumulation HEA at increasing elevations. arise gradually evolve continuously distributions. Numerous related functions, especially DNA repair energy metabolism pathways, exhibit rapid change continuous positive selection two studied genera distantly related, they numerous convergent evolutionary changes, functional level. This convergence appears be more extensive than individual gene level, although found 32 homologous genes undergoing both groups. We argue groups distributed broad powerful system testing environments compared studies only pairs versus species.