Colossal Biosciences, a U.S.-based company in Dallas, has announced the birth of three genetically engineered Dire wolf pups using ancient DNA from fossilized dire wolves. This is being referred to as the world’s first “de-extincted” animal.
How Was It Done?
- Scientists used genetic engineering techniques with recovered ancient DNA.
- The project involved cloning and gene editing, similar to techniques used in other de-extinction and conservation efforts.
- These pups possess traits of the extinct dire wolf, though not exact clones.
Name of Newborns
- Romulus (male)
- Remus (male)
- Khaleesi (female)
Names inspired by Roman mythology and Game of Thrones lore.
About the Dire Wolf
- Scientific name: Canis dirus
- Existed during the last Ice Age in the Americas
- Went extinct ~13,000 years ago
- 25% larger than modern gray wolves
- More robust skull and jaw, adapted for big prey
