Likewise, the same gene might be found in both humans and mice but not in corn, which would indicate that particular gene is necessary for mammals but not for plants. Nature takes this genetic conservation to some unexpected extremes. The eyes of the octopus and humans are created from different tissues when the body is an embryo, yet scientists have discovered the eyes in both creatures are coded by the same genes. Woodson says these slight differences in gene structure and gene function determine the amazing diversity in organisms. The science of genomics will begin to unravel this mystery, opening up untold opportunities for the application of genetic technology to crop and livestock production, as well as to human health.
Genetic conservation goes beyond just having certain genes in common.
Plant scientists have discovered in the past few years that if they determine the location of a gene for a specific trait in one plant, another plant in the same family is likely to have the gene in the same place. This is a boon to plant breeders. Today, the fastest way to improve corn might be to study the genetics of sorghum. Corn's genome is three times larger than sorghum. By identifying genes for a desired trait, such as drought tolerance, in sorghum, researchers know where to look for it in corn.