How Zebras got their stripes without Darwin


The role of epigenetics in shaping zebra stripes has indeed challenged traditional neo-Darwinian explanations of evolution, which primarily focus on genetic mutations as the driving force behind phenotypic change. Epigenetic modifications are heritable changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations to the underlying DNA sequence. These changes can occur in response to environmental factors or developmental signals and can be passed on to offspring.

The discovery of epigenetic mechanisms in zebra stripe formation has highlighted the importance of non-genetic factors in evolutionary processes. It suggests that the environment can play a direct role in shaping organismal traits, even in the absence of genetic mutations. This challenges the traditional view that evolution is solely driven by random mutations and natural selection.

Epigenetic modifications can provide a rapid and reversible response to environmental change, allowing organisms to adapt to new conditions without the need for lengthy genetic changes. This flexibility is particularly advantageous in rapidly changing environments, where genetic mutations may not be able to keep pace.

The epigenetic regulation of zebra stripes demonstrates the intricate interplay between genes and the environment in shaping organismal traits. It challenges the simplistic view of neo-Darwinism and emphasizes the dynamic and multifaceted nature of evolutionary processes.

Here's a summary of the key points:

  1. Epigenetics plays a significant role in zebra stripe formation.

  2. Epigenetic modifications provide a rapid and reversible response to environmental change, allowing organisms to adapt without genetic mutations.

  3. Epigenetics challenges traditional neo-Darwinian explanations of evolution.

  4. Epigenetics emphasizes the dynamic and multifaceted nature of evolutionary processes.

  5. The interplay between genes and the environment is crucial for shaping organismal traits.

Ref

Integument pattern formation involves genetic and epigenetic controls: feather arrays simulated by digital hormone models

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4386648/


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