Scientists have sequenced the genome of the two-toed sloth for the first time, revealing the genetic basis for their slowness.
The study, published in BMC Biology, identified genetic features underlying the extremely slow metabolism of sloths.
Sloths have the lowest metabolic rate among mammals, allowing them to conserve energy by adjusting body temperature.
The genome analysis uncovered active transposons, or "jumping genes," which originated around 30 million years ago in a common ancestor.
Researchers believe these genes play a key role in sloths' slow movement and unique metabolism.
