The effect of age and sex on the rate of germline mutations in barn owls

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ID: 320449
2026
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Abstract
Abstract The rate of new mutations is the ultimate source of genetic variation, and thus, a fundamental quantity in evolution. Mutation rates vary across the tree of life, influenced by selection pressures and life-history traits. Within species, mutation rates and types show differences between sexes as well as a positive association with parental age. Most of the direct estimates come from a few mammal species, often primates, and their generality has not been fully realised. Using 33 parent-offspring trios, we investigate the mutation rate in the barn owl (Tyto alba) and show that the species has a mutation rate of 4.96 × 10−9 per site per generation, matching rates of passerine species with a similar generation time of 2-3 years. Using read- and trio-based phasing methods we find that fathers pass on twice as many mutations as mothers and identify subtle differences in the sex-specific spectra of mutations. We also show that the number of mutations increases with paternal age, bringing direct evidence for germline senescence in birds. While across-species mutation rates and types appear conserved, the potential for within species variation due to age is substantial.
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openalex_W7167935153 Use this key to autocite in the manuscript while using SciMatic Manuscript Manager or Thesis Manager
Authors Alexandros Topaloudis, Anne‐Lyse Ducrest, Ana Drago Rosa, Céline Simon, Bettina Almasi, Alexandre Roulin, Jérôme Goudet
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Journal genome biology and evolution
Year 2026
DOI
10.1093/gbe/evag175
URL
https://doi.org/10.1093/gbe/evag175
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