Tail length

This lecture examines genetic control of tail length using variation between deer-mouse populations and targeted experiments. It considers multiple quantitative-trait loci, the possible role of Hoxd13 expression and evidence from altered Hox13 activity. Vertebral development provides a case study of how changes in gene regulation can produce evolutionary changes in body form.

This lecture compares two approaches to the evolution of mammalian tails. It critically examines the proposed role of altered Tbxt splicing in ape tail loss, including difficulties interpreting mouse experiments. It then introduces quantitative-genetic studies of deer mice in different habitats, where several loci contribute to variation in tail length.