Summary
This study presents a chromosome-anchored genome assembly for rainbow trout and identifies a novel mechanism for resolving sexual conflict in species lacking differentiated sex chromosomes. A 55-Mb double-inversion supergene mediates sex-specific migratory behaviour through sex-dependent dominance reversal, with latitudinal frequency variation suggesting environmentally dependent selection. The mechanism protects sexually antagonistic genetic variation whilst avoiding the deleterious mutations and homozygous lethality associated with heteromorphic sex chromosomes.
UK applicability
The findings are primarily of relevance to aquaculture genetics and domesticated rainbow trout breeding programmes, including those operating in UK waters. Understanding sex-dependent dominance reversal in supergenes may inform selective breeding strategies for migratory and life-history traits in farmed and conservation populations.
Key measures
Double-inversion supergene size (55 Mb), sex-specific dominance patterns, latitudinal frequency clines, genomic location of photosensory, circadian rhythm, adiposity and sex-related genes
Outcomes reported
The study characterised a 55-Mb double-inversion supergene in rainbow trout that mediates sex-specific migratory tendency through sex-dependent dominance reversal. The supergene displays a latitudinal frequency cline, indicating environmentally dependent selection, and contains genes related to photosensory, circadian rhythm, adiposity and sex-related traits.
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