Link: Is this ‘de-extinction’ project actually onto something?

Dallas-based startup Colossal, funded by entities including the CIA and Peter Thiel, focuses on "de-extinction" projects. Their efforts involve not replicating extinct animals from DNA, but rather integrating extinct species' traits into live animals, like their 2025 project that presented modified gray wolves.

Despite criticism that these efforts divert attention from current conservation challenges, Colossal announced a new focus on the extinct bluebuck antelope in April.

CEO Ben Lamm highlighted that the technologies developed might aid in the conservation of other antelopes, with plans to make these tools widely available.

One such technology, the "ovum pickup" technique, allows the collection of eggs from live animals, promising wide application in conservation.

Douglas McCauley, an ecologist, though critical of past projects, acknowledges the potential of such technologies to aid species preservation.

Colossal has also been promoting a "global biobanking" initiative aimed at preserving genetic materials of endangered species.

While Lamm sees "de-extinction" as a way to attract attention and funding for broader conservation goals, critics like McCauley remain skeptical, fearing it may overshadow urgent conservation needs.

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Yoooo, this is a quick note on a link that made me go, WTF? Find all past links here.