The Essentia Blog

While scientists may not be close to cloning dinosaurs, they are one step closer to being able to clone extinct species.  Researchers have successfully cloned mice from frozen cells, a feat once thought impossible due to ice damage of the DNA.  The research was successfully conducted on the cells of mice that had been frozen for 16 years at -20 Celsius.

The Giant Floreana Tortoises of the Galapagos islands were thought to be extinct since the 1800’s.  New research shows that current species of Galapagos tortoises carry the Floreana DNA, and it is possible that they may be resurrected through a selective breeding program.

Tortoises on these islands are partially responsible for Charles Darwin’s formulation of his theory of evolution.  He noticed that some species were being exploited, the Floreana in particular for the manufacture of lamp oil.