Should We Change Species to Save Them?

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the concept of "assisted evolution" - using techniques like crossbreeding and gene editing to alter the genomes of vulnerable animal species in order to help them survive threats like habitat degradation, invasive species, infectious diseases, and climate change. This is presented as a potential solution when traditional conservation methods fail, especially in the context of Australia's biodiversity crisis.

🙋 Q&A

[01] Should We Change Species to Save Them?

1. What is the key issue discussed in this article?

• The article discusses the concept of "assisted evolution" - using scientific techniques like crossbreeding and gene editing to alter the genomes of vulnerable animal species in order to help them survive threats and survive.
• This is presented as a potential solution when traditional conservation methods fail, especially in the context of the biodiversity crisis in Australia.

2. What are some of the threats facing native Australian animals?

• Habitat degradation
• Invasive species
• Infectious diseases
• Climate change

3. What makes Australia a unique case study for biodiversity loss?

• Australia is the birthplace of many unique species like songbirds, egg-laying mammals, and marsupials.
• Nearly half of Australia's birds and 90% of its mammals, reptiles and frogs are found nowhere else on the planet.
• Australia has one of the worst rates of species loss in the world due to the various threats it faces.

4. What is the traditional conservation approach, and how does "assisted evolution" differ from it?

• The traditional conservation approach is to preserve wild creatures as they are.
• "Assisted evolution" challenges this by using scientific techniques to actively alter the genomes of vulnerable species, in order to give them the traits needed to survive.

5. Why do some scientists believe the traditional conservation approach may no longer be enough?

• In this "human-dominated age" with severe biodiversity threats, the traditional conservation playbook may no longer be sufficient to protect many species.
• "Assisted evolution" is presented as a more proactive approach to give vulnerable wildlife a chance to survive.