Colossal Biosciences, a U.S.-based company, has announced plans to resurrect the bluebuck antelope, an extinct African species hunted to extinction by European settlers around 1800. The bluebuck, known for its silvery slate-blue coat and distinctive horns, is the sixth species in the company's de-extinction portfolio, joining the woolly mammoth, dire wolf, thylacine, dodo, and moa.
Core Facts and Immediate Action
Colossal Biosciences has completed foundational steps in its two-year-old bluebuck project, focusing on genetic engineering to modify the DNA of living relatives like the roan and sable antelopes. The company aims to create a hybrid resembling the extinct species and is exploring rewilding sites in South Africa for potential releases. CEO Ben Lamm emphasized the project's dual purpose: reviving the bluebuck and advancing conservation tools for endangered antelope species.
Deeper Dive and Context
The bluebuck was hunted to extinction within 34 years of its scientific documentation, primarily for its unique hide. Colossal Biosciences' approach involves editing the genes of closely related antelopes to recreate the species. The company has previously successfully engineered dire wolf pups using ancient DNA, demonstrating its capability in de-extinction efforts.
Scientific and Conservation Implications
Colossal Biosciences' work extends beyond de-extinction, with potential applications for conserving endangered antelope species. About a third of the world's roughly 90 antelope species are currently threatened or near-threatened. The company's technology could help protect these species by improving reproductive and genetic tools.
Ethical and Historical Considerations
The bluebuck's extinction is directly attributed to human activity, specifically European settlers. Ben Lamm stated, 'Humans did this. European settlers shot the bluebuck out of the Cape in under 34 years. There's no ambiguity about the cause and there's no ambiguity about the responsibility. If we have the capability to right that wrong, I think we have an obligation to.' This perspective highlights the ethical dimensions of de-extinction efforts, balancing scientific innovation with historical accountability.