Species ResurrectionResurrecting species that had previously been thought extinct now seems to be quite technically possible.Some of the most obvious candidates also happen to be the most famous ones:
Species resurrection is likely to bring fame and fortune to those who successfully master it. The scientific benefits of recreating some of our nearest relatives are likely to be significant. As Darwin once predicted:
CandidatesThe Pleistocene cave bear is included because its genome has already been successfully sequenced.Homo floresiensis and Neanderthals are included because of their scientific significance - as our closest relatives. The Dodo is included because it is an archetypal extinct species - a role it would most-likely rapidly lose if it were resurrected. The phrase "dead as a dodo" would take on new significance. The Mammoth is included because its remains are often found in a frozen state - making recovering intect DNA easier. The Giant moa is included because of its beauty and because its relatively-recent loss should make it easy to recover the relevant DNA. The idea of bringing back predators - such as the huge bird of prey - Haast's Eagle or the Saber-tooth tiger - is obviously more controversial. Resurrection would most likely be contingent on an appropriate isolated nature reserve being found for these creatures. However, that should not put too much of a damper on attempts to sequence and preserve their DNA.
Technical detailsThere are several ways of bringing back extinct species - all of which involve sequencing its DNA - and then fertilising an egg of a close living relative.One method replaces the DNA in the egg with that of a reconstructed female extinct ancestor. Another method skips that step, and attempts to creates hybrid between the extinct species and the modern relative. If the hybrid is viable, the process is iterated, until a reasonably pure specimin is obtained. Obtaining the relevant DNA sequences can represent a technical challenge. However the success with the Pleistocene cave bear demonstrates that the challenge can be surmounted - at least in some cases.
SymbolismResurrection of species that had previously been thought extinct would also have symbolic value. Extinction would no longer be seen as a permanent fate. In the midst of a mass-extinction event, this would have significant implications.
LinksPleistocene ParkDOE JGI sequences DNA from extinct cave bear Bringing The Mammoth Back To Life Could scientists resurrect the dodo bird? Baby Mammoth found Mammoth tusk hunting More Mammoth tusk hunting |