The woolly mammoths of Wrangel Island were remarkable creatures that managed to survive in a remote island in the Arctic Ocean despite rising sea levels. New research published on June 27th has challenged the previous theory that they went extinct due to inbreeding. Instead, it suggests that their demise was caused by another factor, highlighting the importance of genetic diversity for the survival of a species.
Genetic diversity is crucial for ensuring that species can adapt to changing environments and avoid mutational meltdown. When small populations are forced to interbreed over many generations, harmful mutations accumulate and can lead to extinction. However, having a variety of unrelated individuals in a population increases the chances of one possessing a heritable trait that can protect it from threats. If this trait can be passed down to offspring, the species can survive.
The new study challenges the traditional explanation that the woolly mammoths of Wrangel Island died out due to inbreeding. This highlights the delicate balance required for species to thrive in their environment and serves as a reminder of the importance of genetic diversity in ensuring survival.
