AI Finds 2,300 Genetic Clues – Is the Dodo on Its Way Back to Life?

Biotechnology company Colossal announced that an AI system it developed identified approximately 2,300 regions in bird DNA that may explain the beak and skull structure of the dodo, which went extinct over 350 years ago. The findings, obtained using the GenoMorph system, point to possible genetic connections but still require laboratory verification. The company plans to use the Nicobar pigeon, the dodo's closest living relative, as a base for genetic engineering. Colossal has previously created engineered dire wolves and woolly mice, but scientists argue these are modern wolves with genetic modifications, not a full resurrection of the extinct species. CEO Ben Lamm told Reuters the company is working with scientists and the Mauritian government on the possibility of returning the bird to its natural habitat, but habitat restoration and reduction of invasive species populations are needed. The company has not set a target date for hatching the first dodo, and the path from genetic discovery to a living bird remains long.

Biotechnology company Colossal announced that an AI system it developed identified approximately 2,300 regions in bird DNA that may explain the beak and skull structure of the dodo, which went extinct over 350 years ago. The findings, obtained using the GenoMorph system, point to possible genetic connections but still require laboratory verification. The company plans to use the Nicobar pigeon, the dodo's closest living relative, as a base for genetic engineering. Colossal has previously created engineered dire wolves and woolly mice, but scientists argue these are modern wolves with genetic modifications, not a full resurrection of the extinct species. CEO Ben Lamm told Reuters the company is working with scientists and the Mauritian government on the possibility of returning the bird to its natural habitat, but habitat restoration and reduction of invasive species populations are needed. The company has not set a target date for hatching the first dodo, and the path from genetic discovery to a living bird remains long.

AI Finds 2,300 Genetic Clues – Is the Dodo on Its Way Back to Life?