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Octopuses Unveil 480-Million-Year-Old Sex Chromosomes

2/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Octopuses have revealed a fascinating secret: they possess the oldest known sex chromosomes, dating back more than 480 million years. Researchers at the University of Oregon uncovered a distinct Z chromosome in female California two-spot octopuses, while males boast a double-Z pair. This groundbreaking discovery sheds light on the intricate genetics and evolutionary journey of these remarkable creatures.

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Story summary

Octopuses have revealed a fascinating secret: they possess the oldest known sex chromosomes, dating back more than 480 million years. Researchers at the University of Oregon uncovered a distinct Z chromosome in female California two-spot octopuses, while males boast a double-Z pair. This groundbreaking discovery sheds light on the intricate genetics and evolutionary journey of these remarkable creatures.