Conservationists Say ‘De-Extinction’ Not the Answer to Saving Extinct Species
Conservationists have raised alarms over the trend of using biotechnology for ‘de-extinction’ as a solution to biodiversity loss. Experts argue that creating extinct species like the dire wolf does not tackle the root causes of endangerment and could distract from essential conservation efforts.
Key Points
- Biotech company Colossal announced plans to create genetically modified grey wolves, mistakenly described as ‘de-extinct’ dire wolves.
- Conservationists warn that focusing on de-extinction is not a sound strategy for biodiversity preservation.
- Real solutions involve changing human behaviours towards endangered species rather than resurrecting extinct ones.
- The current technological capabilities in de-extinction are limited and should not replace traditional conservation methods.
- Critics fear the idea of ‘reversible extinction’ may lead to complacency in conservation efforts.
Why should I read this?
If you think bringing back extinct species is the future of conservation, think again! This article throws a spanner in the works of that idea, highlighting the real need for us to get serious about protecting endangered species instead of just resurrecting the past. It’s a fascinating read that challenges a popular but misguided narrative—saving you the hassle of digging around for the facts yourself.