Story perspectives

Atlas Blue Butterfly: Record Chromosome Count Faces Threats

9/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Atlas blue butterfly (Polyommatus atlantica) has the highest chromosome count among multicellular animals, with 229 pairs.
It is found in the mountain ranges of Morocco and northeast Algeria.
Researchers sequenced its genome, confirming its chromosome number and unique splitting process, which may enhance adaptation.
This evolutionary change took about three million years.
Climate change and habitat destruction currently threaten its populations.

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Story summary

The Atlas blue butterfly (Polyommatus atlantica) has the highest chromosome count among multicellular animals, with 229 pairs.
It is found in the mountain ranges of Morocco and northeast Algeria.
Researchers sequenced its genome, confirming its chromosome number and unique splitting process, which may enhance adaptation.
This evolutionary change took about three million years.
Climate change and habitat destruction currently threaten its populations.