Scientists Discover ‘Mutant Gene’
Sea Nomads of Southeast Asia
A rare group called the Bajau, often referred to as “Sea Nomads,” has lived on Southeast Asia’s coastal waters for nearly 1,000 years. They build homes on stilts over the ocean and spend most of their time diving and fishing. “It’s like a biological scuba tank,” said Melissa Ilardo, lead researcher from the University of Copenhagen, about their unique adaptation.
Incredible Diving Abilities
The Bajau practice traditional free-diving daily, often spending up to eight hours underwater and reaching depths of more than 70 meters. They use weighted belts and wooden goggles, and their dives can last from 30 seconds to several minutes.
Over time, this demanding lifestyle triggered what scientists call the human diving response—a process that slows the heart, limits blood flow, and squeezes the spleen to release oxygen-rich red blood cells.
A Remarkable Biological Trait
Research revealed that the Bajau have spleens about 50% larger than neighboring populations. This gives them a natural oxygen reserve while diving. “The spleen contracts and releases oxygen-rich red blood cells into circulation,” explained National Geographic. This physical adaptation may have developed over generations to improve underwater endurance.
Genetic Evolution and Future Threats
Scientists also found that a gene called PDE10A, which affects spleen size, is more common in the Bajau. “PDE10A stood out,” said Prof. Rasmus Nielsen from UC Berkeley. This finding mirrors other high-adaptation communities, like Tibetans living at high altitudes.
