Researchers at the University of Melbourne are making significant strides in their efforts to revive the Tasmanian tiger, also known as the thylacine. The animal, which went extinct about 100 years ago, has long captured the fascination of scientists and conservationists.
The Tasmanian tiger once roamed the mainland of Australia but became extinct there about 2,000 years ago due to climate change and poaching. However, it managed to survive on the island of Tasmania until the early 20th century. European settlement brought about increased hunting of the thylacine, as it was seen as a threat to livestock. The last known Tasmanian tiger, named Benjamin, died in 1936 at the Hobart Zoo in Tasmania.
Since then, researchers have been dedicated to finding a way to bring back this unique creature. Now, scientists at the University of Melbourne are utilizing advancements in ancient DNA recovery and artificial breeding to make this dream a reality. Their hope lies in the recovery of an RNA sample from the body of a Tasmanian tiger preserved in a museum in Sweden since 1891.
Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is a genetic material found in all cells and shares structural similarities with DNA. By successfully recovering the RNA sample, scientists believe they can potentially revive the Tasmanian tiger. The endeavor is being carried out in collaboration with Colossal Biosciences, a biotech company based in Texas, USA. It is estimated that $15 million is being allocated towards this project.
The Tasmanian tiger, named for its tiger-like stripes, actually resembled more of a wolf in appearance. Its unique blend of features and its place in Australia’s natural history make it an important candidate for resurrection. However, there are also ethical and practical considerations that come with bringing an extinct species back to life.
Nevertheless, the research team at the University of Melbourne remains hopeful and committed to their mission. Dr. Andrew Pask, a researcher involved in the project, highlights the potential benefits of their work, stating, “Reviving the Tasmanian tiger would not only be an incredible scientific achievement, but it would also help shed light on the evolution and ecology of this fascinating animal.”
As the world eagerly awaits further progress in this groundbreaking endeavor, the possibility of witnessing the remarkable return of the Tasmanian tiger inches closer to reality.