DNA from Extinct Giant Lemurs Links to Living Indriids
Author Information
Author(s): Orlando Ludovic, Calvignac Sébastien, Schnebelen Céline, Douady Christophe J, Godfrey Laurie R, Hänni Catherine
Primary Institution: Université de Lyon
Hypothesis
What is the phylogenetic relationship between extinct archaeolemurid lemurs and extant indriids?
Conclusion
The study provides evidence that Archaeolemur and Hadropithecus are closely related to extant indriids.
Supporting Evidence
- Ancient DNA sequences were successfully recovered from three extinct lemur genera.
- The study supports a sister relationship between archaeolemurids and indriids.
- The findings contrast with previous studies suggesting a closer relationship to lemurids.
Takeaway
Scientists studied ancient DNA from giant lemurs that lived a long time ago and found out they are related to today's indriids, which are a type of lemur.
Methodology
Ancient DNA was extracted from 12 subfossil remains, targeting mitochondrial genes using PCR.
Limitations
Poor DNA preservation conditions in subtropical environments limited the recovery of DNA from some samples.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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