Himalayan Wolves with Hypoxia Adaptation are Separate Species
According to a study published in the Journal of Biogeography, Himalayan wolves, also called as Tibetan wolves, which live at more than 4,000 metres altitudes are genetically distinct from grey wolves. The divergence of Himalayan wolves relates to past uplift of the region.
Key Findings
- The genetic analysis revealed a clear divergence of Himalayan wolves and marked them as separate breed. There was considerable admixture at the lower edges of the range.
- Living at such high altitudes, these wolves have genetically adapted themselves to live in low oxygen (hypoxic) conditions. While effective oxygen availability at sea level is nearly 22%, ....

