What Extinct Animals Are Coming Back?
In recent years, the field of de-extinction has gained significant traction, with scientists and conservationists working towards bringing back extinct species. De-extinction, also known as "species revival," involves the resurrection of extinct species through genetic engineering or other means. This concept was once considered science fiction, but thanks to advancements in technology and our understanding of genetics, it is now a real possibility.
The Quagga: A Prime Example
The Quagga, a subspecies of zebra, is an ideal candidate for de-extinction. With only 200 individuals known to exist in the 19th century, the Quagga was declared extinct in 1883. However, DNA samples from the last surviving Quaggas have been preserved, providing a foundation for scientists to bring back this species. The quagga’s extinction was due to overhunting and habitat loss.
Aurochs and Mammoths: The Next on the List
The Aurochs, a type of wild cattle that once roamed Europe, and the Woolly Mammoth, a giant Ice Age species, are also being considered for de-extinction. DNA samples from these ancient species have been recovered, and researchers are working on sequencing the genomes to restore the species.
Thylacine and Passenger Pigeon: The Tasmanian Tiger and The Bird That Changed the World
The Thylacine, also known as the Tasmanian Tiger, is another species being considered for revival. This carnivorous marsupial went extinct in the 1930s due to overhunting and habitat loss. With DNA samples from the last surviving Thylacines, scientists believe it’s possible to bring back this unique creature.
The Passenger Pigeon was once the most abundant bird species in North America, with an estimated population of 3-5 billion. However, due to habitat destruction and overhunting, it became extinct in 1914. With advancements in genetic engineering, scientists are now attempting to bring back this iconic bird.
Will Bees Go Extinct by 2050?
AKF estimates in 2022 there are between 32,065 and 57,920 Koalas left in the wild. If we continue to kill sharks at the rate we are (100-273 million every year) the animal will be wiped from our oceans by 2040.
Here are some of the extinct animals that may be coming back:
| Species | Reasons for Extinction | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Quagga | Overhunting, habitat loss | Research in progress |
| Aurochs | Overhunting, habitat loss | Research in progress |
| Woolly Mammoth | Climate change | Research in progress |
| Thylacine | Overhunting, habitat loss | Research in progress |
| Passenger Pigeon | Habitat destruction, overhunting | Research in progress |
| Koalas | Habitat destruction, climate change | Concerned |
Challenges and Controversies
While the idea of de-extinction may seem exciting, there are several challenges and controversies surrounding this concept. Some of the major concerns include:
- Ethical issues: Is it morally justifiable to bring back extinct species, particularly if it means displacing extant species or altering ecosystems?
- Cost and logistics: De-extinction programs are expensive and require significant resources, funding, and infrastructure.
- Genetic modification: Genetic engineering to bring back extinct species raises questions about the potential risks and unintended consequences.
Conclusion
The idea of de-extinction is a complex and controversial one, but it also holds immense promise. By understanding the challenges and controversies surrounding de-extinction, we can work towards restoring lost species and preserving our natural world. As we continue to research and develop new technologies, we may one day see the return of the Quagga, Aurochs, Woolly Mammoth, Thylacine, Passenger Pigeon, and Koala, among others.