De-Extinction and Genetic Techniques

The video explores the concept of de-extinction, which aims to bring back extinct species using technologies like back-breeding, cloning, and synthesis. It highlights the historical significance of Dolly the sheep and discusses methods such as back-breeding to recreate aurochs, cloning through somatic cell nuclear transfer, and synthesis for genetic comparison. The passenger pigeon serves as a case study for these methods. The video also addresses the challenges and ethical considerations of de-extinction, emphasizing the need for controlled experiments and the potential impact on existing ecosystems.

What was the significance of Dolly the sheep in the context of de-extinction?

• It was the first successful genetic modification.

• It marked the beginning of genetic engineering.

• It demonstrated the potential for recreating extinct species.

• It was the first animal to be cloned.

What is the primary goal of back-breeding in de-extinction?

• To create entirely new species.

• To recreate extinct species by selecting for specific traits.

• To synthesize new genetic sequences.

• To clone animals using somatic cell nuclear transfer.

What is a major unknown factor when recreating extinct species through back-breeding?

• The lifespan of the recreated species.

• The behavior of the recreated species.

• The dietary needs of the recreated species.

• The exact genetic makeup of the original species.

Which method involves transferring the nucleus of one cell into another?

• Back-breeding

• Genetic modification

• Synthesis

• Somatic cell nuclear transfer

What is a key challenge in using synthesis for de-extinction?

• Finding suitable surrogate mothers.

• Identifying the correct genetic sequences to modify.

• Ensuring the behavior of the recreated species matches the original.

• Preventing the extinction of current species.

What ecological concern is associated with reintroducing extinct species?

• They will require too much human intervention.

• They will not survive in modern climates.

• They will not be able to reproduce.

• They may become invasive and disrupt current ecosystems.

What is a significant challenge in maintaining large herbivores like mammoths in modern environments?

• Managing their impact on existing ecosystems.

• Providing suitable climates for them.

• Finding enough food for them.

• Ensuring they do not become extinct again.

Why might de-extinction be limited in scope and ambition?

• Due to the high cost of the technology.

• To prevent ecological disruption and focus on species with significant benefits.

• Because of the lack of public interest.

• Due to the difficulty in finding suitable habitats.

Which extinct animal is mentioned as a potential candidate for de-extinction due to its appeal?

• Woolly mammoth

• Giant ground sloth

• Dodo bird

• Saber-toothed tiger

What is a potential benefit of seeing extinct species like mammoths again?

• It would provide new sources of food.

• It would increase interest in conservation efforts.

• It would solve climate change issues.

• It would boost tourism.