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bioRxiv · 10.64898/2026.05.19.726040

Comparative somatic genomics reveals divergent development of cell lineages across scleractinian corals

Conn, T.·Reusch, T. B. H.·Werner, B.·Baums, I.
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Abstract

Somatic mutations may drive adaptation and aging across diverse life forms, yet their role remains poorly understood in many early-branching animals. Here, we compare somatic mutation accumulation in the robust coral Orbicella faveolata with previous findings in the complex coral Acropora palmata. Whole-genome sequencing revealed high fixation of somatic genetic variants in O. faveolata, particularly in older, interior regions of colonies--contrasting with A. palmata. These patterns suggest distinct cell population dynamics between clades, indicating a segregated, mammal-like germline in O. faveolata, whereas such a germline remains undetected in A. palmata. This underscores the diversity of somatic evolutionary mechanisms across scleractinian corals.

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Conn, T., Reusch, T. B. H., Werner, B., Baums, I.. 2026-05-21. Comparative somatic genomics reveals divergent development of cell lineages across scleractinian corals. https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.05.19.726040

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