Latest news with #IceAge-era
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Beyond de-extinction and dire wolves, gene editing can help today's endangered species
Have you been hearing about the dire wolf lately? Maybe you saw a massive white wolf on the cover of Time magazine or a photo of 'Game of Thrones' author George R.R. Martin holding a puppy named after a character from his books. The dire wolf, a large, wolflike species that went extinct about 12,000 years ago, has been in the news after biotech company Colossal claimed to have resurrected it using cloning and gene-editing technologies. Colossal calls itself a 'de-extinction' company. The very concept of de-extinction is a lightning rod for criticism. There are broad accusations of playing God or messing with nature, as well as more focused objections that contemporary de-extinction tools create poor imitations rather than truly resurrected species. While the biological and philosophical debates are interesting, the legal ramifications for endangered species conservation are of paramount importance. As a legal scholar with a Ph.D. in wildlife genetics, my work focuses on how we legally define the term 'endangered species.' The use of biotechnology for conservation, whether for de-extinction or genetic augmentation of existing species, promises solutions to otherwise intractable problems. But it needs to work in harmony with both the letter and purpose of the laws governing biodiversity conservation. What did Colossal actually do? Scientists extracted and sequenced DNA from Ice Age-era bones to understand the genetic makeup of the dire wolf. They were able to piece together around 90% of a complete dire wolf genome. While the gray wolf and the dire wolf are separated by a few million years of evolution, they share over 99.5% of their genomes. The scientists scanned the recovered dire wolf sequences for specific genes that they believed were responsible for the physical and ecological differences between dire wolves and other species of canids, including genes related to body size and coat color. CRISPR gene-editing technology allows scientists to make specific changes in the DNA of an organism. The Colossal team used CRISPR to make 20 changes in 14 different genes in a modern gray wolf cell before implanting the embryo into a surrogate mother. While the technology on display is marvelous, what should we call the resulting animals? Some commentators argue that the animals are just modified gray wolves. They point out that it would take far more than 20 edits to bridge the gap left by millions of years of evolution. For instance, that 0.5% of the genome that doesn't match in the two species represents over 12 million base pair differences. More philosophically, perhaps, other skeptics argue that a species is more than a collection of genes devoid of environmental, ecological or evolutionary context. Colossal, on the other hand, maintains that it is in the 'functional de-extinction' game. The company acknowledges it isn't making a perfect dire wolf copy. Instead it wants to recreate something that looks and acts like the dire wolf of old. It prefers the 'if it looks like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it's a duck' school of speciation. Disagreements about taxonomy – the science of naming and categorizing living organisms – are as old as the field itself. Biologists are notorious for failing to adopt a single clear definition of 'species,' and there are dozens of competing definitions in the biological literature. Biologists can afford to be flexible and imprecise when the stakes are merely a conversational misunderstanding. Lawyers and policymakers, on the other hand, do not have that luxury. In the United States, the Endangered Species Act is the main tool for protecting biodiversity. To be protected by the act, an organism must be a member of an endangered or threatened species. Some of the most contentious ESA issues are definitional, such as whether the listed species is a valid 'species' and whether individual organisms, especially hybrids, are members of the listed species. Colossal's functional species concept is anathema to the Endangered Species Act. It shrinks the value of a species down to the way it looks or the way it functions. When passing the act, however, Congress made clear that species were to be valued for their 'aesthetic, ecological, educational, historical, recreational, and scientific value to the Nation and its people.' In my view, the myopic focus on function seems to miss the point. Despite its insistence otherwise, Colossal's definitional sleight of hand has opened the door to arguments that people should reduce conservation funding or protections for currently imperiled species. Why spend the money to protect a critter and its habitat when, according to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, you can just 'pick your favorite species and call up Colossal'? Biotechnology can provide real conservation benefits for today's endangered species. I suggest gene editing's real value is not in recreating facsimiles of long-extinct species like dire wolves, but instead using it to recover ones in trouble now. Projects, by both Colossal and other groups, are underway around the world to help endangered species develop disease resistance or evolve to tolerate a warmer world. Other projects use gene editing to reintroduce genetic variation into populations where genetic diversity has been lost. For example, Colossal has also announced that it has cloned a red wolf. Unlike the dire wolf, the red wolf is not extinct, though it came extremely close. After decades of conservation efforts, there are about a dozen red wolves in the wild in the reintroduced population in eastern North Carolina, as well as a few hundred red wolves in captivity. The entire population of red wolves, both wild and captive, descends from merely 14 founders of the captive breeding program. This limited heritage means the species has lost a significant amount of the genetic diversity that would help it continue to evolve and adapt. In order to reintroduce some of that missing genetic diversity, you'd need to find genetic material from red wolves outside the managed population. Right now that would require stored tissue samples from animals that lived before the captive breeding program was established or rediscovering a 'lost' population in the wild. Recently, researchers discovered that coyotes along the Texas Gulf Coast possess a sizable percentage of red wolf-derived DNA in their genomes. Hybridization between coyotes and red wolves is both a threat to red wolves and a natural part of their evolutionary history, complicating management. The red wolf genes found within these coyotes do present a possible source of genetic material that biotechnology could harness to help the captive breeding population if the legal hurdles can be managed. This coyote population was Colossal's source for its cloned 'ghost' red wolf. Even this announcement is marred by definitional confusion. Due to its hybrid nature, the animal Colossal cloned is likely not legally considered a red wolf at all. Under the Endangered Species Act, hybrid organisms are typically not protected. So by cloning one of these animals, Colossal likely sidestepped the need for ESA permits. It will almost certainly run into resistance if it attempts to breed these 'ghost wolves' into the current red wolf captive breeding program that has spent decades trying to minimize hybridization. How much to value genetic 'purity' versus genetic diversity in managed species still proves an extraordinarily difficult question, even without the legal uncertainty. Biotechnology could never solve every conservation problem – especially habitat destruction. The ability to make 'functional' copies of a species certainly does not lessen the urgency to respond to biodiversity loss, nor does it reduce human beings' moral culpability. But to adequately respond to the ever-worsening biodiversity crisis, conservationists will need all available tools. This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Alex Erwin, Florida International University Read more: If it looks like a dire wolf, is it a dire wolf? How to define a species is a scientific and philosophical question How redefining just one word could strip the Endangered Species Act's ability to protect vital habitat One green sea turtle can contain the equivalent of 10 ping pong balls in plastic Alex Erwin does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Hindustan Times
30-05-2025
- Hindustan Times
Yellowstone to Yosemite: 10 epic national parks to explore in June 2025
National parks are a source of joy and beauty for all who visit. Be it the spine-chilling thrills or laid-back luxuries they offer, parks are a call to those who wish to add a sense of adventure to life. Ranging from the highest of peaks to the most stunning of trails, Glacier National Park is revered in equal amounts for its beauty as well as historical value. The park is located right at the border of Canada and Montana and is often referred to as the 'Crown of the Continent'. The location promises adventure to all its visitors- be it the easy-to-traverse Trail of the Cedars or the much more challenging Grinnell Glacier, most lodging locations in the area find their names in the National Register of Historic Places. Wildlife and remnants of Ice Age-era glaciers span across one million acres of lakes, waterfalls, and mountain ranges. Located in the northwest corner of Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park extends into the edges of Idaho and Montana with plenty of adventure and wildlife within its bounds. Mountains, canyons, geysers, and waterfalls traverse the expanse of its 3000-plus square mile terrain. Yellowstone Lake, Mammoth Hot Springs, West Thumb Geyser Basin, Lewis River Channel, and the Dogshead Loop are other favorite tourist spots in the area. Boasting an incredible mix of hot springs and green forests, this location is sure to keep you coming back for more. The Yosemite National Park can often be overcrowded and bustling with people, but that's just a testament to the beauty and splendor this place holds. From gushing waterfalls and millennia-old sequoia trees to cliff faces and some of America's most unique rock formations, Yosemite has it all. For those just starting off as hikers, there are plenty of guided tours and climbing lessons for one to take advantage of in the area. The Grand Canyon National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for no short reason. Its massive red and orange splendor is enough to attract a bounty of tourists to experience its cataclysmic beauty each year. The South Rim is home to the more commercialized part of the location with an overburdening of amenities dotting the area. For those seeking a more rugged experience, the cliffs and steep hikes of the North Rim may prove more suitable. Try and grab a helicopter tour while you're at it for a view from the top. Be it wildlife, walks, skiing, or rafting you're in search of, one thing is for certain: the Grand Teton National Park can offer it all. A popular location for hikers to discover hidden wonders in the summer, the snow-capped peaks of the Teton Range in this Wyoming park become an ideal location for skiing and snowshoeing activities in the winter. Photographers take a fancy to the breathtaking beauty of the place while wildlife lovers get to witness grizzly bears, antelope, bison, and many other animals up close. Nestled in the southwest corner of Utah, Zion National Park is a perfect escape for those looking for adventure and beauty in the same spot. Be it the descending Virgin River or ascending Angels Landing, this park has a hidden secret to unveil at every turn and corner. The stars that dot the night sky are an active relief from the heat of the day; making the massive footfall this location receives each year no point of wonder. If you wish to be transported to the snow-capped days of the Ice Age, look no further than Kenai Fjords National Park. This Alaskan beauty carries natural icy wonders like the Harding Icefield. The Glacier Overlook Trail and Glacier View Loop Trail offer stunning views of this peak's hiking trails along with the Exit Glacier that flows into the main icefield. With the largest hoodoos and clearest sky compared to anywhere else in the world, Southwest Utah's Bryce Canyon National Park is a vision to behold. The Paunsaugunt Plateau carries about a dozen amphitheaters or horseshoe-shaped canyons right in the heart of this scenic location. The canyon doubles down as an optimal stargazing location due to minimal interference by light pollution in the area. Moab, Utah carries one of the most eye-opening beauties in the continent- the Arches National Park. Light and rock come to play at the park uniquely by creating incredible natural sandstone arches and a clear view of the Milky Way in the night sky. Everyone, from the occasional walker to the more enthusiastic hiker can find a trail to traverse in this spot. The Olympic National Park is located on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State. Created as an attempt to save the declining forest cover in the region, it was much later that the park received its credit for becoming a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. Around one million acres in area, the park is a delight for nature lovers of all sorts- from boat riders and hikers to photographers and stargazers alike.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Lubbock's Ringtail Ranch animal rescue is moving near Abilene
Lemurs are on the move, with a Lubbock-based rescue set to relocate to Central Texas between Abilene and Fort Worth. Ringtail Ranch Lemur Rescue and Educational Center announced the upcoming move, expected to happen over the summer of 2025. Owner Jeanna Treider explained the reasons for the move and details big plans for the new 25-acre space in Mingus. 'We really outgrew our facility, that was the number one reason,' Treider said. 'The number two is, we just weren't hitting the numbers that we needed to grow as fast as we were growing.' Dig in: West Texas road project digs up Ice Age-era sloth tooth, here's what else they found Within the first few months of public tour operations in 2023, Ringtail Ranch housed 36 lemurs, two red kangaroos, two bearded dragons, two miniature horses, two rabbits and a macaw. Since then, that has grown to 80 lemurs, along with the addition of kinkajous, a fox and marmosets. There's even a waiting list for lemurs awaiting rescue. The new facility at 1210 Parsons Road in Mingus covers 25 acres and includes a 10,000 sq. ft. insulated barn-like building. Electricity and HVAC systems are in the installation process. Treider hopes to reopen Ringtail Ranch in the new space this summer. 'It's about to get wild,' Treider said. 'I would like to encourage the community to continue to follow us in our journey and encourage them to visit when we are open Summer 2025.' The space caught Treider's attention, then the central location to several cities and an upcoming state park sealed the deal. The nearby locales and drive-times are: 32 minutes from Stephenville. 35 minutes from Weatherford. About an hour from Fort Worth and Dallas. An hour and 13 minutes from Abilene. 2 hours from Wichita Falls. About 2 and a half hours from San Angelo. 3 and a half hours from Lubbock. It is also close to the upcoming Palo Pinto Mountains State Park near Strawn, which will be the first Texas state park established in more than two decades. This article continues after the gallery. 'There's going to be a lot of people traveling through,' Treider said. 'Now, the property that we bought gives us the ability to do more.' That more will include AirBnBs, more education programs and additional animals, including an otter encounter. Staff will also be able to live on-site and provide 24/7 care. Larger habitats and indoor-outdoor enclosures will be added. Ringtail Ranch will have some final chances for people to see them in Lubbock before the move. The final events will be part of the Lubbock Public Library's Summer Reading Program: 2 p.m. June 2 in the Mahon Community Room in the Mahon Public Library, 1306 9th St. 2 p.m. June 3 in the Easy Book Area in the Godeke Branch Library, 5034 Frankford Ave. 2 p.m. June 4 in the Community Room at the Patterson Branch Library, 1836 Parkway Drive. 2 p.m. June 5 in the Groves Branch Library, 5520 19th St. People can also reserve encounters on Saturdays and Sundays. People can make a reservation by calling or texting 806-781-1076, or emailing ringtailranchtx@ Visits at the Mingus location will also be by appointment only. Shop local: Here's where to find farmers markets in, near Lubbock for the 2025 season 'I would like to add a thank you to the Lubbock community for allowing us to share our animals with them, and also, thank the Community Foundation of West Texas for their continued support,' Treider said. 'Even through we're not here, we're just a few hours away, so come out and see us.' People can keep up with the rescue at Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Donations can be made at 'If there are any contractors or businesses in the area that have the ability to help us, we're actively building, so we are in need of pretty much everything,' Treider said. 'We rely solely on donations and grants, and all donations are tax deductible.' Ringtail Ranch is a 501c3 nonprofit and USDA approved. Alana Edgin writes about business for the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. Got a news tip? Contact her via email at aedgin@ This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Ringtail Ranch Lemur rescue Lubbock moving to Big Country near Abilene
Yahoo
09-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Dire wolves brought back: See photos of Romulus, Remus and Khaleesi
Four-legged creatures known as dire wolves who were prominent in HBO's "Game of Thrones" series no longer belong solely to the realm of fantasy. Colossal Biosciences, the genetic engineering company working to bring back a few different extinct animals, announced this week the successful resurrection of the Ice Age-era species. The recent birth of three dire wolf puppies marks the first time Colossal has successfully "de-extincted" a species, the company said Monday in a press release. Colossal, a biotech company based in Dallas, Texas, is famous for its efforts to bring back the wooly mammoth and the Tasmanian tiger. DNA recovered from a 13,000-year-old tooth and a 72,000-year-old skull is what propelled scientists at Colossal to bring back the dire wolf. The creatures, who have regularly appeared in pop culture as mythical animals, are most famously featured in "Game of Thrones" and George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" fantasy novels that the show is based upon. Fans of the series will remember that dire wolves are the sigil of House Stark, and a litter of abandoned pups becomes loyal companions to Stark children in the storyline. But dire wolves are real-world predators that once roamed North America before going extinct about 13,000 years ago. The animals are larger than modern-day gray wolves with a wider head and snout and larger jaws and teeth. If you want more details on just how Colossal pulled off the feat, we've got you covered here. But if you're just looking for some photos of the fluffy predators, you came to the right place. Here's a look at Colossal's dire wolves: Dire wolves: Dire wolf returns from extinction? Company reveals 'magic' it's using to bring back species This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: Dire wolves of 'Game of Thrones' fame brought back to life: See photos
USA Today
08-04-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Dire wolves brought back: See photos of Romulus, Remus and Khaleesi
Dire wolves brought back: See photos of Romulus, Remus and Khaleesi The recent birth of three dire wolf puppies marks the first time Colossal Biosciences has successfully "de-extincted" a species. Show Caption Hide Caption Dire wolves extinct for 13,000 years recreated from ancient DNA Colossal, a Texas-based biotech company, revealed that it successfully recreated extinct dire wolves. Four-legged creatures known as dire wolves who were prominent in HBO's "Game of Thrones" series no longer belong solely to the realm of fantasy. Colossal Biosciences, the genetic engineering company working to bring back a few different extinct animals, announced this week the successful resurrection of the Ice Age-era species. The recent birth of three dire wolf puppies marks the first time Colossal has successfully "de-extincted" a species, the company said Monday in a press release. Colossal, a biotech company based in Dallas, Texas, is famous for its efforts to bring back the wooly mammoth and the Tasmanian tiger. DNA recovered from a 13,000-year-old tooth and a 72,000-year-old skull is what propelled scientists at Colossal to bring back the dire wolf. The creatures, who have regularly appeared in pop culture as mythical animals, are most famously featured in "Game of Thrones" and George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" fantasy novels that the show is based upon. Fans of the series will remember that dire wolves are the sigil of House Stark, and a litter of abandoned pups becomes loyal companions to Stark children in the storyline. But dire wolves are real-world predators that once roamed North America before going extinct about 13,000 years ago. The animals are larger than modern-day gray wolves with a wider head and snout and larger jaws and teeth. If you want more details on just how Colossal pulled off the feat, we've got you covered here. But if you're just looking for some photos of the fluffy predators, you came to the right place. Here's a look at Colossal's dire wolves: Dire wolves: Dire wolf returns from extinction? Company reveals 'magic' it's using to bring back species See photos of Colossal Biosciences' resurrected dire wolves
