CRISPR used to create Arctic-adapted elephants with Mammoth traits.
Reviving Dodo birds through biotechnological advancements for species preservation.
Deep dives
Bringing Back the Woolly Mammoth: The Science Behind De-Extinction
Colossal is using CRISPR Genome Editing Technology to genetically resurrect a Woolly Mammoth by 2027. The company aims to create Arctic-adapted elephants with Mammoth-like traits like cold resistance. This hybrid species could help restore ecosystems, including grasslands, and potentially mitigate the effects of melting permafrost.
Dodo De-Extinction: From Icon of Extinction to Biotechnological Hope
Colossal is working on bringing back the extinct Dodo bird, a species driven to extinction by humans. The project involves editing primordial germ cells in bird embryos to introduce Dodo-like traits. This biotechnological advancement could transform the Dodo from a symbol of extinction to an opportunity for species and ecosystem preservation.
Implications and Challenges of De-Extinction Efforts
Colossal's de-extinction initiatives raise questions about the practicality and ethical implications of resurrecting extinct species. Scientists like Beth Shapiro caution against false hopes of true de-extinction, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts for currently endangered species. The technology behind de-extinction may offer tools for enhancing species' adaptability to changing habitats.
Debate and Reflection on De-Extinction: The Narrative of Resurrecting Species
The concept of de-extinction sparks debates on the necessity, feasibility, and potential consequences of reviving extinct species. Scientists grapple with semantic tensions regarding the representation of de-extinction projects and the public's perception of genetic manipulation. The discussion surrounding de-extinction serves as a reminder of human-induced extinction crises and the ongoing need for biodiversity conservation.