Researchers have unveiled new insights into the genetic history of bison, shedding light on the impact of their near-extinction and subsequent recovery. The study, recently published in the journal Science, involved sequencing 160 bison genomes spanning 20,000 years.
Led by paleogeneticist Jonas Oppenheimer and the Paleogenomics Lab at the University of California, Santa Cruz, the research involved nearly 40 scientists, many of whom were Canadian. By analyzing ancient and modern bison DNA, the study aimed to aid modern conservation efforts by understanding the genetic changes that have occurred in the species.
The research revealed that modern bison herds, once genetically similar across North America, are now fragmented and genetically diverse, posing challenges to their resilience. The study found that despite the drastic decline in population due to human activities in the late 19th century, genetic diversity has survived but is now isolated in distinct herds.
Additionally, the study highlighted the distinct genetic differences between wood bison and plains bison, emphasizing the need for separate management strategies. The research also suggested that efforts to reconnect isolated herds and promote gene flow could help prevent further genetic diversity loss.
The findings from this study offer valuable insights for conservationists aiming to preserve bison populations and promote genetic diversity among herds. By leveraging ancient genomes and genetic mapping, researchers hope to facilitate the return of bison to their natural habitats and mitigate the impacts of past population declines.