For the first time in history, a full genome sequence of the Tasmanian tiger’s closest living relative has been mapped, sparking hope the lost species could one day be resurrected.
The numbat genome was fully sequenced by researchers from The University of Western Australia and DNA Zoo Australia in hopes to protect the endangered species тАФ WA’s animal emblem.
But there is an added bonus to the development.
Numbats and Tasmanian tigers, also known as thylacines, share a common ancestor that lived between 35 million and 41 million years ago.
It’s hoped the DNA profile could serve as a “blueprint”, of sorts, to clone the thylacine.
“Decoding the full numbat genome therefore raises the tantalising prospect of being able to piece together the thylacine’s genetic sequence, which in turn would offer the tantalising prospect of reintroducing one of Australia’s most iconic lost species.”
“Benjamin”, the last known thylacine, died from exposure at the Beaumaris Zoo in Hobart on September 7, 1936.
Prior to European settlement, there were an estimated 5000 of the native marsupials roaming the island state but hunting drove the animal to extinction.
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It’s also hoped the DNA development will transform numbat conservation efforts.
“With less than 1000 numbats left in the wild, this genomic resource will open new doors for numbat conservation efforts as well as for our scientists on the front line, fighting the very genetic diseases threatening to exterminate numbats,” Associate Professor Kaur said.
