Scientists have discovered the largest genome ever sequenced, belonging to a tiny Pacific fern called Tmesipteris oblanceolata, which contains about 160 billion base pairs of DNA, over 50 times larger than the human genome.
Plant genome sizes can vary greatly, with some being 2,500 times larger than others, and plants can accumulate repetitive DNA sequences, leading to large genomes.
The fern's genome is taller than the Statue of Liberty if stood upright and holds 11 billion more DNA pairs than the next largest plant genome, challenging current knowledge and providing avenues for understanding genomic gigantism.
The genome consists of DNA that regulates gene activity and includes a significant amount of non-coding DNA, often called "junk DNA," which may be the result of genome duplication and insertion of virus-like sequences over evolutionary time.
The reason behind the fern's massive genome remains a mystery, and managing such vast genetic information poses challenges for cells due to resource constraints, but the genome size may reflect environmental stability rather than plant needs.
Scientists are unsure of the function of most DNA in large genomes. Larger genomes can increase the risk of extinction for species, as they require more resources for DNA processes, straining the plant's energy and nutrient resources and slowing down cellular division.
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq
Sources: Futurism, CBS News, BBC, New York Times, Science News, New Scientist, Business Insider, Phys.org