The animal with the most genes is the Daphnia pulex, also known as the water flea.
The Surprising Gene Champion
It might be surprising to learn that a microscopic crustacean holds this title, but the Daphnia pulex boasts approximately 31,000 genes. This is significantly more than humans, who have around 23,000 genes. This was revealed in a study done on the Daphnia pulex, with results published on February 3rd, 2011, revealing this amazing fact.
How Does Daphnia Compare to Humans?
| Species | Approximate Number of Genes |
|---|---|
| Daphnia pulex | 31,000 |
| Humans | 23,000 |
The fact that a tiny creature like the water flea has more genes than a complex organism like a human highlights the incredible diversity and complexity of the natural world.
Why Does Daphnia Have So Many Genes?
- The complex genetic makeup of Daphnia pulex allows it to quickly adapt to changes in its environment.
- The water flea's genome plays a crucial role in its survival and adaptability to its freshwater habitat.
