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The dire wolf is back
Context
In a significant development, a biotechnology firm in Texas (Colossal Biosciences), announced the birth of genetically modified wolf pups — claimed to be “resurrected” dire wolves, extinct for over 12,000 years.
What Has Been Achieved?
- Colossal Biosciences used genome editing to make gray wolves genetically resemble the extinct dire wolf:
- The gray wolf (Canis lupus) and the dire wolf (Aenocyon dirus) share 94% genetic similarity.
- The company edited 20 loci across 14 genes in the gray wolf genome, focusing on traits like size and fur — largely cosmetic traits.
- Embryos with edited DNA were implanted in dog surrogates, resulting in pups named Romulus and Remus.
- However, only a fraction (possibly 0.02%) of the actual genetic difference between the two species was altered. Crucially, behavioral, social, and ecological traits are shaped by the entire genome and environment — not just appearance.
- These are not true dire wolves, but genetically modified gray wolves engineered to look like
Why is De-Extinction Controversial?
- Ecological Risks: Habitats have changed drastically since these species went extinct. Climate, prey species, and ecosystems have evolved — reintroducing ancient species may cause unintended disruptions.
- Genetic Uncertainty: Partial genome editing can’t recreate the full complexity of extinct species. Behavioral traits, immunity, reproduction, and adaptability are unknown variables.
- Ethical and Regulatory Concerns: Animal welfare during gene editing and surrogacy is questionable. May divert attention and funding from protecting endangered species and conserving ecosystems.
- Policy Misuse: Colossal’s announcement was used to justify regulatory rollbacks in the U.S., as seen with the Trump-era rhetoric that "innovation, not regulation" would protect biodiversity.
Can Ancient Species Thrive in Today’s World?
- Conservation is shifting toward high-tech interventions. Conservation efforts should prioritize ecosystem resilience, biodiversity corridors, and habitat protection — not nostalgia-driven rewilding of prehistoric species.
- Ancient species evolved under specific environmental conditions — temperature, food sources, competitors — that no longer exist.
- Modern human-dominated landscapes may not support their reintroduction.
- Risk of becoming invasive species or failing to survive is high.
About Extinct Dire Wolf
De-Extinction
Genome Editing
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