The organism currently known to have the most DNA is the Japanese canopy plant, Paris japonica.
Understanding Genome Size
When discussing which organism has the "most DNA," we are typically referring to the size of its genome. The genome is the complete set of genetic instructions for an organism, encoded in DNA. Genome size is usually measured by the total number of DNA base pairs.
While humans have billions of base pairs in their genome, other organisms, particularly certain plants and some amphibians, have vastly larger genomes. This doesn't necessarily mean they are more complex, but rather that they possess a significantly greater amount of DNA.
The Record Holder: Paris japonica
Based on analyses conducted to date, the organism with the largest known genome is a plant species.
- Name: Paris japonica
- Common Name: Japanese canopy plant
- Genome Size: An astonishing 149 billion base pairs (149 Gbp).
According to research published on February 17, 2022, Paris japonica's genome is about 50 times larger than the human genome. This makes it the organism with the biggest genome analyzed so far, highlighting the immense genomic diversity found in the plant kingdom.
Here's a simple comparison:
| Organism | Approx. Genome Size (Base Pairs) |
|---|---|
| Human (Homo sapiens) | ~3 billion (3 Gbp) |
| Paris japonica | 149 billion (149 Gbp) |
The vast difference underscores how genome size can vary dramatically across different life forms. While plants are known for their genomic diversity, Paris japonica stands out as an extreme example.
It is important to note that this record is based on organisms that have been studied. There may be other organisms with even larger genomes that have not yet been analyzed. However, among those measured, Paris japonica currently holds the title.
