Genetics might save the rare, elusive saola — if it’s not already extinct

It’s not looking good for the saola.

If it still exists, it is one of the world’s rarest large mammals — a deerlike creature from the mountainous rainforests of Vietnam and Laos that’s been called “Asia’s unicorn” because of its scarcity. But the last living saola (Pseudoryx nghetinhensis) was seen in 2013, in photographs from a motion-triggered trail camera. Even hopeful experts think there are now fewer than 100 still alive. “That number is extremely optimistic,” says University of Copenhagen wildlife geneticist Rasmus Heller. “The real number is probably much lower … and it’s possible that there are actually zero.”

.email-conversion { border: 1px solid

→ Continue reading at Science News

More from author

Related posts

Advertisment

Latest posts

Is Using a Stair Machine the Same as Climbing Stairs?

You can get a great workout by walking up the stairs in a tall building. The only problem is that you can’t watch TV...

Haribo recalls some products in Netherlands after cannabis found in candy | CNN Business

CNN  —  Haribo is recalling bags of its fizzy cola bottles in the Netherlands after cannabis was found...

The ‘white-collar bloodbath’ is all part of the AI hype machine | CNN Business

A version of this story appeared in CNN Business’ Nightcap newsletter. To get it in your inbox, sign up for free here. ...