Chinese researchers have unlocked a long-standing biological mystery: how birds effortlessly consume acidic fruits that would make most animals recoil. A groundbreaking study published in Science reveals a critical mutation in the OTOP1 gene – responsible for sour taste perception – that enables songbirds to tolerate highly acidic diets.
The discovery, led by scientists from mainland China, explains why species like thrushes and robins thrive on citrus and fermented berries. Researchers compared genetic data across 363 bird species, identifying a unique adaptation in the OTOP1 receptor that reduces sensitivity to sour tastes while maintaining other flavor perceptions.
This finding carries implications beyond ornithology. Food scientists suggest it could inform new approaches to crop protection by understanding how birds interact with acidic fruits. Pharmaceutical researchers are exploring potential applications for managing human taste disorders.
For ecologists, the study offers fresh insights into co-evolution between plants and avian seed dispersers. 'This genetic adaptation helps explain how certain bird species became nature's gardeners,' noted Dr. Li Wei, a co-author of the study.
