Recombination rate between sex chromosomes depends on phenotypic sex in the common frog

Evolution. 2010 Dec;64(12):3634-7. doi: 10.1111/j.1558-5646.2010.01076.x.

Abstract

We show that the recombination rate between the sex chromosomes is controlled by phenotypic, rather than genotypic, sex in sex-reversed common frogs. This supports the recent hypothesis that in ectothermic vertebrates sex reversal can prevent the progressive accumulation of mutations to nonrecombining Y chromosomes and their subsequent evolutionary decay.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Demography
  • Female
  • Finland
  • Male
  • Mutation
  • Phenotype
  • Rana temporaria / genetics*
  • Recombination, Genetic*
  • Reproduction
  • Sex Chromosomes*