Indian Yak Genomics

• 22 May 2025

Source: TH 

For the first time, Indian scientists have successfully assembled a chromosome-level genome of the Indian yak (Bos grunniens), an essential high-altitude bovine species. 

• Indian Yak Genomics: The project used long-read sequencing technology and advanced bioinformatics, enabling precise mapping of genes to specific chromosomes. 
  • Long-read sequencing is a DNA sequencing method that reads long stretches of DNA, thousands to millions of base pairs, unlike short-read sequencing, which reads shorter fragments (typically 100–300 base pairs).  
  • Bioinformatics combines biology, computer science, and math to analyze and interpret large biological datasets, such as DNA, RNA, and protein sequences. 
  • Moreover, this genomics study will help in allele mining, enhancing scientific research and local livestock management. 
    • Allele mining identifies genetic variations linked to desirable traits like disease resistance, drought tolerance, or high yield within or across species. 
• Indian Yak: In India, yaks are found above 7,000 feet in Ladakh, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh. 
  • Protection Status: 
    • IUCN Red list Status: Vulnerable 
    • CITES: Appendix I 
    • Indian WildLife (Protection) Act of 1972: Schedule I 
• Food Animal: In 2022, Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) approved the Himalayan Yak as a ‘food animal’, allowing its use in food production or consumption to help arrest its declining population.  

Read More: Himalayan Yak