Elon Musk has called on scientists to create small woolly mammoths that can be kept as pets. The request comes after Colossal Biosciences announced the successful creation of three genetically engineered dire wolf pups, which share physical characteristics with their extinct ancestors.
To recreate a woolly mammoth, Colossal’s researchers have sequenced much of its genome and are working on incorporating cold-tolerant traits from Asian elephants. This technology could potentially revive the species in the future.
Musk’s idea may not be entirely fanciful, as scientists believe that reviving the mammoth could bring back a healthier ecosystem to Siberia. The company has already made progress with smaller projects, such as creating “woolly mice” engineered with mammoth genes to survive cold climates.
While there are no plans for permanent rewilding of extinct species, Colossal aims to continue its efforts in reviving charismatic megafauna. Other candidates include dodos and thylacines.
Source: https://www.newsweek.com/elon-musk-bring-back-woolly-mammoth-2056785